Lil Ronnie and R’Mani FOREST HILL, Texas Death – A tragic shooting at Slappy’s Express Car Wash on Monday, March 3, 2025, has left the community in shock after claiming the lives of Fort Worth rapper Ronnie “Lil Ronnie” Smith and his 5-year-old daughter, R’Mani. Newly released surveillance footage reveals the horrifying moments when two armed suspects exited a white four-door Kia and opened fire on Smith’s vehicle as he cleaned his car.
The video shows Smith attempting to flee towards a nearby trash can, but the suspects pursued him, firing at close range. Authorities believe R’Mani was fatally struck during the initial gunfire. Both Smith and his daughter died at the scene. The Forest Hill Police Department has identified one suspect and issued a capital murder warrant, though the individual’s name has not been released.
Family members are struggling to process the senseless violence. Smith’s aunt, Stella Houston, described him as a devoted family man with no known enemies. “He was a loving father and a good person,” she said. “This is unimaginable.”
The tragedy is compounded by the fact that R’Mani had just celebrated her fifth birthday the day before the shooting. Her loss has left loved ones heartbroken, with Houston adding, “She was just a baby. She didn’t deserve this.”
This double homicide marks the fourth and fifth murders in Forest Hill this year, a sharp rise compared to zero homicides in 2024. The spike in gun violence has alarmed residents and local officials, who are calling for action to address the growing crisis.
Authorities are actively investigating the case and urge anyone with information to come forward. “We are committed to finding those responsible and bringing justice to the victims’ families,” a police spokesperson said.
As the community mourns, loved ones remember Smith as a talented artist and a dedicated father, and R’Mani as a bright, joyful child whose life was tragically cut short.
Anyone with information is encouraged to contact the Forest Hill Police Department at (817) 555-1234.