Gwendolyn Fay Smith,Ryne Jacob Leist Obituary, Death; – Four individuals have lost their lives following two suspected murder-suicides that occurred within days of one another in Monroe County.
One incident involves two 16-year-olds who were discovered fatally shot in Raisinville Township, while the other pertains to a bowling coach from Bedford Township who allegedly shot and killed a 17-year-old girl before taking his own life. The two cases are not connected.
Monroe County Sheriff Troy Goodnough conducted a press conference on Wednesday, June 18, to provide further details regarding the events. On Saturday, June 14, Gwendolyn Fay Smith, 17, from Temperance, and Ryne Jacob Leist, 33, also from Temperance, were found deceased at a residence on West Sterns Road, located east of Jackman Road, in Bedford Township.
Authorities suspect that the 33-year-old shot Gwendolyn multiple times, resulting in her death, before he subsequently took his own life. According to the sheriff, Gwendolyn’s stepfather returned home to discover their bodies.
The sheriff also mentioned that they are investigating how Leist gained entry into the house. Bowling coach resigned shortly before incident
Leist served as a bowling coach at the high school attended by Gwendolyn, although he was employed by Forest View Lanes rather than the school district.
In an initial statement, the sheriff’s office indicated that he was not a coach, but they later corrected this information during the press conference, clarifying that leadership officials had previously provided them with inaccurate details.
Prior to the shooting, Leist had resigned from his position at the bowling alley. Officials state that this resignation occurred shortly before the incident, although they do not have a specific date.
Relationship unclear
The specifics of their relationship remain ambiguous, but authorities believe that Gwendolyn did not view their relationship as romantic.
Nevertheless, five days prior to the murder-suicide, there was a communication between the two that is currently under investigation. The sheriff did not disclose any additional information regarding this matter.
The sheriff also stated that they lack any information concerning other complaints made against Leist involving other individuals.
At about 10 a.m. on Tuesday, June 17, deputies responded to Heiss Road near Steffas Road after receiving a report that two teens had been found dead.
Deputies arrived and discovered the two teens in the roadway outside of a car with fatal gunshot wounds.
The teens have been identified as 16-year-old Faith Renee Hamilton and 16-year-old Landon Bryan Lafond.
Teens found by victim’s uncle
The sheriff said that Faith’s uncle was the person who had called dispatch and reported finding the two teens.
It is believed Faith’s uncle used a phone app to track Faith’s location, which is how he found the teens.
Writings found that indicate suspect’s intention
The two teens were believed to be dating, according to the sheriff.
Faith is being considered a victim, and Landon is being considered a suspect, but at this time, the sheriff’s office isn’t labeling this as a murder-suicide.
They are waiting on the coroner’s report for the official cause and manner of death.
Authorities also say they are investigating whether the suspect drove Faith there or if she arrived at the location in another way.
Even though Bedford Township Schools and Airport Community Schools are out of session for the summer, both have activated crisis response teams to provide support for the community.
The superintendent of Airport Community Schools released the following statement:
Dear Jet Families,
It is with profound sadness and a heavy heart that I share the tragic news of the passing of two of our students. The Airport Community Schools family is mourning this unimaginable loss, and our thoughts and deepest sympathies are with the families and loved ones affected by this tragedy.
During times like this, the strength of our community is more important than ever. Our district crisis response team has been activated, and grief counselors are available for students, staff, and families who need support. We encourage anyone who is struggling to reach out- we are here to help each other through this. Support from our crisis team, along with the Monroe ISD team will be available in the high school media center tomorrow, Thursday, June 19, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
We also ask that you keep the families in your thoughts and respect their privacy as they navigate this incredibly difficult time.
This is a time for compassion, support, and unity. Please take care of yourselves and one another as we grieve together.
