Keela Lanea Cole, aged 42, tragically lost her life on July 20, 2021, in Sacramento, California. Keela was known for her friendly and outgoing nature, working in customer service and restaurants while prioritizing her two daughters, Kayla and Jasmine. Her unexpected death occurred in the early hours of the morning at an apartment complex near Arden Way and east of Howe Avenue.
When deputies arrived at the scene, they found Keela suffering from gunshot wounds, and she was pronounced dead shortly after.
The investigation into Keela's death revealed that she was shot twice in the back of the head by Fard Smithson, a man who was staying with her at the time. The incident occurred after a gathering where Smithson and his friends were present. According to reports, the altercation began when someone made a joke about the food Keela had prepared. In a fit of rage, Smithson threw his plate into the sink and shot Keela. He and his friends fled the scene, with only one returning to call 911. Smithson later changed his clothes and claimed ignorance about the incident.
Fard Smithson was arrested and charged with Keela's murder. He was convicted of first-degree murder and being a felon in possession of a firearm. The jury also found that Smithson had intentionally and personally discharged a firearm, causing Keela's death. The conviction brought some measure of justice for Keela's family, who were left to mourn the loss of a beloved mother, sister, and friend. Smithson now faces a sentence of 53 years to life in prison, with his sentencing scheduled for August 11, 2023.
