Heartbreak in Bedford Township: Authorities Identify Victims in Apparent Murder-Suicide as 17-Year-Old Gwendolyn Smith and 33-Year-Old Ryne Leist
BEDFORD TOWNSHIP, Mich. — June 16, 2025 — A wave of grief has swept across the Monroe County community as authorities confirmed the identities of two individuals found dead in what investigators are calling an apparent murder-suicide. The victims have been identified as Gwendolyn Fay Smith, a beloved 17-year-old recent graduate of Bedford High School, and Ryne Jacob Leist, 33, both of Temperance.
The tragic discovery was made on Friday, June 14, when Monroe County Sheriff’s deputies responded to a residence on the 1600 block of West Sterns Road in Bedford Township to perform a welfare check. Upon entering the home, deputies found both Smith and Leist deceased. A firearm was located at the scene.
Though the investigation remains active and pending autopsy results, early indications led officials to believe that the deaths were the result of a murder-suicide. The Monroe County Sheriff’s Office has not confirmed who the shooter was but stated there is no ongoing threat to the public.
A Community Mourns
The death of Gwendolyn “Gwen” Smith has left her school, friends, and family devastated. Just weeks earlier, Gwen had walked the stage at graduation, celebrated for her academic excellence, artistic creativity, and athletic achievement.
Bedford Public Schools released a statement mourning her loss:
“Gwen was a gifted student who excelled academically, and her talents extended far beyond the classroom. She was a passionate artist involved in our music programs and a standout athlete on the Bedford High School bowling team. Gwen brought joy, kindness, and enthusiasm wherever she went.”
A GoFundMe campaign organized by friends and community members describes her as “a bright light taken too soon,” and support continues to pour in from classmates, teachers, and neighbors.
“She was so talented, funny, and sweet,” one classmate wrote. “She always had a kind word and the biggest smile.”
Questions Surround Relationship
Authorities have not yet publicly described the nature of the relationship between Gwen and Ryne Leist, leading to growing questions in the community, especially surrounding the significant age difference. Investigators are exploring all avenues, including the timeline of their interactions, digital communications, and potential warning signs leading up to the tragedy.
Leist, 33, had limited contact with law enforcement in the past, but there is currently no public record of any restraining orders or criminal history related to violence. His connection to Smith and presence in the home are still under investigation.
Support and Counseling Services
In response to the tragedy, Bedford High School has made grief counselors available for students and staff affected by the loss. Mental health professionals from surrounding districts have also offered support.
A candlelight vigil is being planned at the high school’s football field later this week to honor Gwen’s memory and allow the community to come together in mourning.
Ongoing Investigation
The Monroe County Sheriff’s Office, in coordination with the Michigan State Police, continues to investigate the incident. Officials have asked anyone with information related to the case to come forward.
As the community of Bedford Township reels from this heartbreaking loss, they are left remembering Gwen not as a victim, but as a bright, accomplished young woman whose life and promise were cut tragically short.
If you or someone you know is in crisis or facing domestic violence, help is available.
- National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-SAFE (7233)
- 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: Call or text 988
This is a developing story and will be updated as more details become available.