In the early morning hours of September 15, 2017, the life of 47-year-old Willie Alonzo Smith Sr., a Black male, was tragically cut short in Fort Wayne, Indiana. Smith was discovered in the 3300 block of Winter Street, suffering from what would prove to be fatal injuries. Despite the prompt arrival of medics, he was pronounced dead at the scene. An autopsy later confirmed that the cause of death was multiple gunshot wounds, and the manner of his death was ruled a homicide.
At the time, he was the 26th homicide victim in Allen County for that year.
Reports indicate that the shooting stemmed from a dispute that erupted during a dice game in which Smith was a participant. An argument escalated, leading to gunfire, and in the aftermath, Smith was left mortally wounded. In a detail shared later, it was revealed that another individual, who remains unidentified, had driven Smith to a local hospital's emergency room before disappearing. This act added another layer of mystery to the already tragic event.
Despite the initial investigation and the identification of persons of interest, the case has grown cold. To date, no arrests have been made and no charges have been filed in connection with the murder of Willie Alonzo Smith Sr. The case remains an open and unsolved homicide. Smith's wife, Lakicia Smith-Alexander, has made public pleas for anyone with information, especially those who were present at the dice game, to come forward and provide the police with the details needed to bring his killer to justice. The lack of closure has been a continued source of grief for his family, who continue to hope for a break in the case that will finally provide answers and accountability for his death.
