15-Year-Old Tristen Paige Smith Fatally Shot; Teenage Boyfriend Charged with Murder in Domestic Violence Case
ELSMERE, KY — July 22, 2025 — A tight-knit Kentucky community is grappling with an unthinkable tragedy after a 15-year-old girl was fatally shot on Monday night in what police are calling a domestic violence incident involving her teenage boyfriend. The victim, identified by family and multiple sources as Tristen Paige Smith, died at the scene from multiple gunshot wounds.
The Elsmere Police Department (EPD) has arrested a 15-year-old male suspect, who is facing serious charges including murder (domestic violence) and tampering with physical evidence. Authorities say the two teenagers were in a relationship, and the motive appears to have stemmed from a personal dispute.
Emergency Response and Scene Details
At approximately 8:45 p.m. on July 21, Elsmere police officers were dispatched to the 3700 block of Autumn Road after receiving multiple emergency calls reporting a shooting in the area. When they arrived, officers discovered a teenage girl lying on the ground with gunshot wounds to her chest and arm.
Despite the swift response from first responders and Wayne County EMS, Tristen was pronounced dead at the scene.
Witnesses described a chaotic and emotional scene as neighbors gathered outside, shocked and heartbroken. “It’s devastating. You just don’t expect this on your own street,” one neighbor said. “She was just a child.”
Suspect Apprehended, Weapon Missing
The 15-year-old suspect, who has not been publicly named due to his age, was arrested shortly after the incident. During questioning, police say he admitted to fleeing the scene on foot after the shooting and discarding the firearm used in the crime. As of Tuesday, that weapon has not been recovered, prompting an urgent public advisory.
“We are asking residents in the area to remain cautious and vigilant,” said EPD in a statement. “The weapon may still be loaded and is considered dangerous. If found, do not touch it. Call 911 immediately.”
EPD detectives, along with crime scene investigators, are conducting thorough searches of the area, including canvassing homes for surveillance footage and interviewing witnesses.
Legal Proceedings Underway
The teenage suspect is being processed through juvenile court, as required by Kentucky law. However, prosecutors are evaluating whether to transfer the case to adult court, given the seriousness of the crime.
If charged as an adult, the suspect could face decades in prison if convicted.
“This is a deeply troubling and tragic case,” one official familiar with the case said. “A young life was taken, and now another young life may be lost to the system. There are no winners here — only heartbreak.”
Remembering Tristen Paige Smith
Tristen’s death has left her family and the Elsmere community shattered. Described by loved ones as bright, kind-hearted, and full of life, she was just beginning her journey into young adulthood.
Friends have taken to social media to share their grief. One wrote, “Rest easy, sweet girl. You didn’t deserve this. We’ll miss your laugh, your heart, your light.”
Tristen was reportedly close to her family, loved spending time with friends, and was well-liked at school. School officials said grief counselors would be available in the coming days for students and staff struggling to process the loss.
Ongoing Investigation
As the investigation continues, police are urging anyone with additional information about the shooting or the location of the missing firearm to come forward. Anonymous tips can be submitted to Elsmere Police Department or through the local Crime Stoppers hotline.
The tragic death of Tristen Paige Smith has once again raised urgent questions about youth violence, teen relationships, and firearm access among minors — sparking calls for more education, intervention, and prevention resources in local schools and communities.