In the early evening of Tuesday, November 11, 2025, the quiet neighborhood around the 1200 block of Kirsten Street in La Marque, Texas was jolted by tragedy. At approximately 6:05 p.m., dispatchers received a call reporting a disturbance at a residence. By the time officers from the La Marque Police Department arrived, a woman inside the home had already been shot. Despite swift efforts by officers and medics, she tragically succumbed to her injuries.
From the outset, the investigation took on added urgency. As officers entered the area, they learned that the suspect – identified as 18‑year‑old Keith Ray Smith Jr. (DOB 01/20/2007) – had fled the scene and was believed to be armed and dangerous. Law enforcement quickly classified him as a person of interest and warned the community to stay on alert.
According to police, the woman killed in the shooting has been identified only as a 36‑year‑old female, found inside the home after the 6 p.m. call. While the full nature of her connection with Smith Jr. remains unclear, authorities confirmed that a search warrant was executed at the residence and the suspect was not found inside.
The scene took a tense turn when officers discovered the suspect may have barricaded himself inside a nearby structure just off the intersection of Cedar Drive and Kirsten Street. A special response team was dispatched and the area was sealed off as they attempted to negotiate his surrender. Residents in the area were asked to steer clear of the location for their safety.
In a statement, the La Marque Police Department appealed directly to the community’s help. They encouraged anyone with information on the whereabouts of Smith Jr. to step forward. Anonymous tips are being accepted, and law enforcement reiterated the suspect’s classification as dangerous — emphasizing that no one should attempt to confront him themselves.
As the investigation continues, questions remain: What led to the disturbance? What was the relationship between the victim and the suspect? And where exactly is Smith Jr. now? Authorities said they are working closely with the Galveston County District Attorney’s Office and other agencies to piece together the timeline and motive.
While the loss of life has shaken the neighborhood, officials stressed the importance of community vigilance. They urged residents in La Marque and surrounding areas to review any security footage they may have, note unfamiliar vehicles or persons, and to report anything out of the ordinary. The department thanked local citizens for their continued cooperation and underscored that safe resolution and peace of mind in the area depend on all sides working together.
At this time, no further updates on an arrest have been released. The public remains on alert as law enforcement continues the search for Keith Ray Smith Jr., and the investigation into the fatal shooting remains active.
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