ELSMERE, Ky. — A 15-year-old boy faces murder charges following a devastating shooting in Elsmere, Kentucky, on Monday night, which claimed the life of 15-year-old Tristen Paige Smith. The incident, classified as a case of domestic violence, has left the northern Kentucky community reeling.
The Elsmere Police Department (EPD) responded to reports of a shooting in the 3700 block of Autumn Road around 8:45 p.m. on Monday, July 21, 2025. Upon arrival, officers discovered a 15-year-old girl with gunshot wounds to her arm and chest. Despite emergency efforts, she was pronounced dead at the scene. The victim has been identified as Tristen Paige Smith, though authorities have not officially released her name pending family notification.
A 15-year-old male suspect was apprehended and charged with murder in connection with the shooting, as well as tampering with physical evidence. The suspect, whose identity is withheld due to his age, reportedly admitted to fleeing the scene on foot and accidentally dropping the handgun used in the incident. As of Tuesday, July 22, 2025, the firearm remains unrecovered, prompting police to issue a public alert. Residents are urged to remain vigilant and to contact 911 immediately if they locate the weapon, which is considered dangerous and critical to the investigation. Authorities have emphasized that the gun should not be touched to preserve potential DNA and fingerprint evidence.
The suspect is currently being processed through juvenile court, as required by Kentucky law. Prosecutors will decide at a later date whether the case will be transferred to adult court. The Elsmere Police Department, in collaboration with the Kenton County Coroner’s Office, continues to investigate the circumstances surrounding this tragic event.
The shooting has deeply affected the Elsmere community, with local residents expressing shock and grief over the loss of a young life. Police are encouraging anyone with information about the incident to come forward to assist in the ongoing investigation. Further updates will be provided as new details emerge.