DAPHNE, Ala. — Authorities are investigating a suspected murder-suicide after four members of the Smith family were found dead in their home on Sable Court in Daphne on Aug.14. Police said Kenny Smith, 44; his wife, Larrica Gaines Smith, 41; and their children, Khristian Smith, 15, and Kinsley Smith, 11, were pronounced dead at the scene.
The deaths were discovered after a concerned family member called police, fearing there may have been self-harm at the residence. Responding officers entered the home and found that all four individuals had died from gunshot wounds. Police believe Kenny Smith shot his wife and two children before taking his own life.
The tragedy has shocked the Daphne community, where neighbors remember the Smiths as an involved, religious family. Residents described them as kind and loving, with connections to local schools and churches. The Baldwin County school system confirmed that both children were students, and announced counseling services would be available to help classmates, teachers and staff deal with the loss.
Investigators spent hours at the family’s home, gathering evidence and working to determine a possible motive. Authorities have not identified any prior reports of domestic violence or threats at the address, but noted the investigation remains ongoing. Police are urging members of the public to avoid the area while their work continues.
This incident has prompted discussions about mental health and family support services in the Daphne area. Local officials encouraged families facing hardships to seek help, and community leaders said they are working to provide additional resources in the wake of the tragedy.