Tragic Shooting in Forest Hill: Local Rapper and 5-Year-Old Daughter Fatally Shot at Car Wash

In a deeply tragic event that has shaken the community of Forest Hill, Texas, local rapper Ronnie Smith and his 5-year-old daughter were shot and killed at a drive-thru car wash near Interstate 20. The incident, which occurred around 11 AM at Slappy’s Express Car Wash, has left family, friends, and the local community in mourning, searching for answers and justice.

As authorities continue their investigation, residents are grappling with yet another act of senseless violence, marking the fourth murder in just a few days in the city. The shooting has raised concerns about public safety, gun violence, and the need for stronger community intervention.

In this article, we will break down everything we know so far, from the details of the shooting to the response from law enforcement and the grief that has gripped the victim’s family and the larger Forest Hill community.

A Family Devastated: What We Know About the Victims

The victims of the shooting have been identified as Ronnie Smith, a local rapper and father, and his 5-year-old daughter, whose name has not yet been officially released by authorities.

According to family members present at the scene, Smith was a devoted father who loved his children and stayed out of trouble. His aunt, in an emotional statement, expressed disbelief that her nephew and his young daughter had been targeted.

Smith’s daughter had just celebrated her 5th birthday the day before. What should have been a time of joy for the family turned into a nightmare when she and her father became victims of this horrifying act of violence.

Family members have described Smith as a kind and peaceful person who was focused on his music career and raising his children. He was known for rapping and working on his music, and those close to him say he had no known enemies.

The loss of a young child in such a violent manner has especially devastated the community, raising questions about safety, crime prevention, and the increasing number of violent incidents in the area.

The Shooting: A Timeline of Events

Morning of the Shooting (11 AM – March 3, 2025)

According to reports and witness accounts:

• Ronnie Smith was at Slappy’s Express Car Wash near East California Parkway Service Road in Forest Hill, Texas, cleaning his vehicle.
• Suddenly, a gunman opened fire, targeting Smith and his daughter.
• Both victims were shot and pronounced dead at the scene.
• Witnesses report dozens of people rushed to the scene as soon as they heard the gunfire.
• Forest Hill police arrived quickly, and as the crowd grew, officers from Fort Worth and Mansfield were called in to assist with the situation.
• Authorities taped off the area, securing the crime scene and attempting to manage the growing crowd of distressed family members and onlookers.

Was This a Targeted Attack?

While no official suspect or motive has been announced by police, family members strongly believe Smith was targeted.

• His aunt, speaking to NBC 5, stated that her nephew was simply cleaning his car when the shooter ambushed him.
• “Why would you target him? He didn’t bother anybody,” she questioned, still in shock over the killing.
• Family members believe the shooting was premeditated, but they are unsure why Smith would be a target.

This incident is part of a larger surge in violence in the Forest Hill area, as this marks the fourth murder in just a few days. The city has been grappling with a rising crime rate, and this tragedy has intensified public concern.

Community Grief and Tensions at the Scene

A Large Crowd Gathers

As news of the shooting spread, a large number of family members, friends, and community members rushed to the crime scene. The crowd only grew as more people arrived, hoping for information or just to pay their respects.

The presence of a large grieving crowd led to tense moments between police and onlookers.

Tense Interactions with Police

• Some family members were frustrated with not being allowed closer to the crime scene.
• Officers had to push back the crowd behind the police tape for safety reasons.
• Concerns were raised that the shooter could still be nearby, possibly blending into the crowd.
• One officer was heard explaining to family members that they had to be extra cautious given the ongoing investigation and potential threats.

Emotions ran high as some family members pleaded for answers, while others openly grieved the loss of their loved ones. The overwhelming grief and frustration only intensified as police provided little information about possible suspects or motives.

Forest Hill’s Rising Gun Violence Problem

This shooting is not an isolated incident. Forest Hill has recently seen a spike in violent crime, and this murder marks the fourth homicide in a matter of days.

Key Concerns Raised by This Tragedy

1. Increasing gun violence – More shootings are occurring, and families feel unsafe.
2. Lack of immediate suspect information – People are frustrated by the lack of arrests or suspect leads.
3. Public safety concerns – Residents are calling for more police presence and community intervention.

This rise in homicides has left many demanding action from local authorities to address crime before it escalates further.

Law Enforcement Response and Investigation Status

Despite repeated requests for information, Forest Hill police have provided minimal details about the case.

What We Know About the Investigation

• Police have not confirmed if they have a suspect or motive.
• They originally planned a press conference, but it was later canceled.
• Authorities stated that they will release a statement within the next few hours.
• Family members say they have not been given clear answers from investigators.

Many in the community are demanding faster action and clearer communication from law enforcement.

What’s Next? Seeking Justice for the Victims

As the investigation continues, family members and local residents are calling for justice.

Steps Authorities Must Take:

1. Identify a suspect and make an arrest – The longer the case remains unsolved, the more fear spreads.
2. Improve communication with the community – The lack of updates is causing frustration.
3. Address rising violence in the city – This shooting is part of a disturbing trend that must be stopped.

How the Public Can Help

• Anyone with information about the shooting is urged to contact Forest Hill police.
• Community members are encouraged to report suspicious activity and help law enforcement.
• Advocacy for stronger gun violence prevention measures is growing in response to this tragedy.

Final Thoughts: A Community in Mourning

This devastating shooting has left a lasting impact on the Forest Hill community.

The loss of Ronnie Smith and his 5-year-old daughter is an unimaginable tragedy that highlights the need for greater safety measures, community support, and justice for victims of violent crime.

As the investigation continues, many are left with questions:

• Why was Ronnie Smith targeted?
• Who is responsible for this horrific act?
• What will be done to prevent further violence in Forest Hill?

The answers to these questions remain uncertain, but what is clear is that a father and his innocent young daughter lost their lives in a senseless act of violence. The community must now come together to demand justice, ensure safety, and support one another in the wake of this tragedy.

Watch the full news report for more details.