Keon Bernard Smith, a 49-year-old quarterbacks coach at Miami Norland Senior High School, was fatally shot in the early hours of June 3, 2024, in Opa-locka, Florida. The incident occurred outside his girlfriend’s home in the area of Northwest 132nd Street and Northwest 28th Avenue. Opa-locka police responded to reports of a shooting around 12:50 a.m. and found Smith suffering from apparent gunshot wounds. Despite the efforts of Miami-Dade Fire Rescue, Smith was pronounced dead at the scene.
Smith was a beloved figure in the community, known for his dedication to football and his positive impact on the students he coached. He had been the quarterback coach at Miami Norland Senior High School for the last couple of years and was remembered by his colleagues, students, and family for his humility, helpfulness, and passion for the sport. The school community was deeply affected by his death, with crisis counselors being made available for staff and students. A moment of silence was held during the school's graduation ceremony to honor him.
The investigation into Smith's death was handled by the Miami-Dade Police Department’s Homicide Bureau. Initially, there was no suspect information, but the family and police urged the person responsible to turn themselves in. A reward of up to $5,000 was offered for information leading to an arrest.
On June 11, 2024, Miami-Dade Police announced the arrest of Lance Brian Rolle, 39, who turned himself in at the Miami-Dade Police Headquarters in Doral. Rolle was charged with second-degree murder with a weapon, robbery, home invasion with a firearm, and aggravated assault with a firearm. He is currently being held at Turner Guilford Knight Correctional Center without bond.
The motive for the shooting remains unclear, although Smith's family suggested that it might have been related to a jealousy situation, as Smith was romantically involved with someone else at the time of his death.
Smith's death has left a significant impact on his family and the community. He was married to India Smith for nearly 24 years and had eight children and two grandchildren. His family and colleagues continue to mourn his loss, remembering him as a good man, a good coach, and a positive influence on those around him.
