Tragedy struck on Monday as rapper Ronnie "Lil Ronnie" Smith, known as G$ Lil Ronnie, and his 5-year-old daughter were fatally shot at a car wash. The deadly shooting occurred at Slappy's Express Car Wash on Forest Hill Drive, leaving the community in shock.
CCTV footage from Slappy's Express Car Wash in shows rapper G$ Lil Ronnie running from 2 gunmen who chase him across the parking lot while shooting at him.
Police and paramedics confirmed that the father and daughter died at the scene. Forest Hill authorities have not provided details about the shooting. No suspects have been identified, and no arrests have been made.
Rapper G$ Lil Ronnie and his 5-year-old daughter killed in targeted attack at car wash.
— Muff’s 🌎 (@MAGAMuffsWorld) March 5, 2025
Watch as he tries to flee his attackers and put distance between them and his daughter.
To kill a man and his daughter over some bs beef is wild. pic.twitter.com/8XrqikOAWy
Smith's aunt, Stella Houston, mourned the loss of her nephew and his young daughter. "He was a rapper. He didn't bother nobody. He didn't target nobody. He was a family man, and he was going around rapping, okay. Why would you target him?" she said, expressing her disbelief and sorrow.
The tragic event has left fans and loved ones searching for answers. The police continue their investigation but have yet to release any leads or possible motives.
Who Was Lil Ronnie?
G$ Lil Ronnie was born in Kansas City, Missouri, and gained fame through his street-inspired music. His storytelling style and raw lyrics resonated with many. Some of his notable tracks include Hoodfame Killumanti, Crash Pt. 4, and Wop.
Apart from his music, Lil Ronnie was a dedicated father. He often posted pictures and videos of his daughter, celebrating milestones in her young life. She had just turned five, making the loss even more heartbreaking for those who followed his journey.
Lil Ronnie had not released a full album since 2023's Literally, but he dropped a single titled Chase in 2024. His contributions to the industry extended beyond his own music. He produced tracks for major artists, including Britney Spears, T-Pain, Usher, GloRilla, Mary J. Blige, Ciara, and Reuben Studdard.
In 2021, he took a major step in his career by launching a five-studio facility in Atlanta, Georgia. He had also been working on an ambitious 100,000-square-foot production facility in Alpharetta, Atlanta. His efforts aimed to support young and upcoming artists in the industry.
A Community in Mourning
News of Lil Ronnie's death has sent shockwaves through the rap community. Fans, friends, and fellow artists have shared tributes on social media, remembering his talent and his love for his daughter.
Many are calling for justice, urging authorities to find those responsible. The tragic nature of the shooting has heightened concerns about violence in public spaces.
For now, the investigation continues, and the Forest Hill police have asked anyone with information to come forward.
Ongoing Investigation
Authorities have not confirmed whether the shooting was a targeted attack or a random act of violence. The lack of details has fueled speculation, but police have remained tight-lipped.
As the community waits for answers, one thing is certain: the loss of Lil Ronnie and his daughter is a devastating blow. The music industry has lost a creative force, and a young child's life was cut short far too soon.
Anyone with information regarding the case is urged to contact Forest Hill police. The search for justice continues as loved ones prepare to say their final goodbyes.
