Gwendolyn Faye Smith Obituary-Death News; Gwendolyn Faye Smith Passes Away In Fatal Monroe County Shooting
Seventeen-year-old Gwendolyn Faye Smith of Temperance was tragically killed in a shooting incident in Monroe County, which police have identified as a murder-suicide. The suspect, 33-year-old Ryan Jacob Leist, who coached the Bedford High School bowling team, allegedly shot Smith multiple times after entering her home before taking his own life.
The Monroe County Sheriff’s Office responded to a call on June 14 at a residence on W Sterns Road in Bedford Township, where Smith and Leist were found with gunshot wounds. Smith’s stepfather discovered both victims upon returning home.
Police are currently reviewing communications between the two individuals to gain further insight into the circumstances. Monroe County Sheriff Troy Goodnough expressed the deep impact the incident has had on the community, highlighting the normally close-knit and peaceful nature of the area.
In response to the tragedy, the Temperance Bedford School District activated its crisis intervention team to support students and staff affected by the events. Community members struggling with emotional distress are encouraged to seek help through resources such as the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline.
