Nationwide — A tragic capturing at a automotive wash in Forest Hill, Texas, on Monday claimed the lives of Ronnie Smith, a 30-year-old native rapper often known as G$ Lil Ronnie, and his 5-year-old daughter, R’Mani. The capturing occurred round 10:45 a.m. at Slappy’s Specific Automotive Wash on Forest Hill Drive. Based on Folks, Smith and his daughter have been of their automobile when two suspects in a white four-door Kia approached and opened fireplace earlier than dashing away. Each victims have been pronounced lifeless on the scene. The incident has left the group in shock, with relations mourning the loss and authorities actively investigating.
Members of the family revealed that R’Mani had simply celebrated her fifth birthday the day earlier than the capturing, making the tragedy much more devastating. Stella Houston, Smith’s aunt, shared that he had been cleansing out his automotive when the suspects opened fireplace. “He was simply cleansing the automotive out, and anyone got here by means of capturing and killed him and the infant,” she stated. The violent assault has raised issues within the space, as Smith was described as a faithful father and an artist who had no recognized enemies.
Family members gathered close to the crime scene all through the day, grieving and demanding justice. Many who knew Smith spoke extremely of his character, emphasizing that he was a household man who centered on his music profession and prevented hassle. “He didn’t goal anybody. He was a household man and was simply going round rapping,” Houston added. “Why would anybody goal him? And his child?” The mindless nature of the crime has left the group looking for solutions.
Police confirmed that they’ve recognized one suspect in reference to the capturing however haven’t but launched a reputation. A warrant has been issued for Capital Homicide as authorities work to find the person. Investigators additionally famous that the town of Forest Hill didn’t document a single murder in all of final yr. Nevertheless, following this incident, the entire variety of homicides within the metropolis has now risen to 5 in 2025.
The rise in gun violence has left many residents feeling uneasy. “You simply should watch out out right here, watch your step. It’s loopy out right here,” stated Randy Owens, a Forest Hill resident. “You’re not protected wherever; you simply have to choose your spots, you already know what I’m saying?” Many group members echoed comparable issues, expressing frustration over the violence affecting their neighborhoods.
Slappy’s Specific Automotive Wash, the place the capturing occurred, launched an announcement expressing its shock and unhappiness over the incident. As a precaution, the enterprise introduced it could stay closed for at the very least two days whereas the investigation continues. In the meantime, Smith’s household and buddies proceed to grieve, hoping that justice will quickly be served for each him and his younger daughter.