The Baldwin County Sheriff’s Office is investigating a devastating tragedy that has left the city of Daphne and the wider Baldwin County community in deep mourning. In the early hours of Thursday morning, four members of the Smith family were found dead in their home on Sable Court from apparent gunshot wounds. Authorities have identified the victims as Larrica Smith, her two children—15-year-old Kristian Smith and 11-year-old Kensley Smith—and her husband, Kenneth “Kenny” Smith.
Preliminary findings from investigators indicate the incident is being treated as a suspected murder-suicide, with evidence suggesting that Kenneth Smith died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound. Deputies were called to the residence at approximately 3:30 a.m. after a concerned family member requested a welfare check. When deputies arrived, they knocked on the door and looked through the windows before forcing entry. Inside, they made the heartbreaking discovery of all four family members deceased.
Baldwin County Sheriff Anthony Lowery described the scene as “as tragic as it comes”, expressing deep sorrow over the loss, especially given that two of the victims were children. Crisis counselors have been made available at the schools attended by Kristian and Kensley to help support their grieving classmates, teachers, and friends.
Kenneth Smith, a military combat veteran, had served his country before transitioning to civilian life as an independent insurance adjuster and home inspector. Friends and acquaintances remember him as disciplined, hardworking, and deeply committed to providing for his family.
Larrica Smith was a respected real estate professional with EXIT Realty Lyon in Fairhope. Deeply rooted in Baldwin County, she was a graduate of Baldwin County High School and pursued further education at both the University of South Alabama and Coastal Alabama Community College. Friends describe Larrica as warm, dedicated, and unfailingly committed to her family’s well-being.
The couple’s relationship began during their university years, growing into a marriage that saw them build a life together in Daphne—a city known for its tight-knit neighborhoods and strong community ties. Friends say the Smith family was well-liked and involved in their community, making the news of their deaths all the more shocking and painful.
As investigators work to piece together the events leading to this tragedy, the focus remains on supporting the surviving relatives, friends, and community members reeling from the loss. In the wake of this incident, local leaders and community organizations are urging residents to look out for one another, check in on friends and family, and seek help when dealing with emotional or mental health struggles.
The deaths of Larrica, Kristian, Kensley, and Kenneth Smith have left a void that cannot be filled. For those who knew them, the memories of their laughter, warmth, and love for one another will be what endures. The community of Daphne is now faced with the difficult task of healing from a loss that will be felt for years to come.
If you’d like, I can also prepare a shorter memorial-style piece focusing entirely on the lives and personalities of each family member, shifting away from the investigation details and putting the emphasis on their legacies. That could make it more suitable for a tribute page or memorial service program.
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