Rae’quan Smith, 20, Fatally Shot in Naranja; Sister Deashia Smith, 17, and Accomplice Elton Hightower, 19, Charged with Second-Degree Murder
Rae’quan Smith, 20, Fatally Shot in Naranja; Sister Deashia Smith, 17, and Accomplice Elton Hightower, 19, Charged with Second-Degree Murder
Miami-Dade County, FL — In a harrowing incident that has left the Naranja community reeling, 20-year-old Rae’quan Smith was fatally shot on February 7, 2025. Months later, authorities have charged his 17-year-old sister, Deashia Smith, and 19-year-old Elton Hightower with second-degree murder in connection with his death. (NBC 6 South Florida)
Incident Overview
On the night of February 7, Miami-Dade Sheriff’s Office deputies responded to a ShotSpotter alert indicating 39 rounds fired in the 13800 block of Southwest 266th Street. Upon arrival, they discovered multiple bullet casings but no victim at the scene. Shortly thereafter, Rae’quan Smith was brought to HCA Florida Cutler Bay Emergency Center by two unidentified males. Despite medical efforts, he succumbed to multiple gunshot wounds.(NBC 6 South Florida)
Investigation and Arrests
The investigation took a significant turn on March 10 when Deashia Smith was arrested for possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. Forensic analysis linked the weapon in her possession to one of the two firearms used in her brother’s murder. Further inquiries revealed that Deashia had informed her mother about plans to “do a drill” on an individual named Rashad, indicating premeditated intent. A witness corroborated that both Deashia and Hightower fired at Rae’quan before fleeing the scene. Cellphone data placed Hightower at the crime scene during the time of the shooting. (NBC 6 South Florida)
Legal Proceedings
Both Deashia Smith and Elton Hightower have been charged with second-degree murder and are being held without bond. Deashia is being charged as an adult due to the severity of the crime. (NBC 6 South Florida)
Community Reaction
The tragic nature of the crime, involving a sibling allegedly participating in her brother’s murder, has shocked the community. Local residents and community leaders have expressed deep sorrow and concern over the incident, emphasizing the need for addressing underlying issues that lead to such violence.
Conclusion
The case of Rae’quan Smith’s murder underscores the complexities of familial relationships intertwined with criminal activities. As the legal process unfolds, the community watches closely, hoping for justice and seeking ways to prevent such tragedies in the future.(NBC 6 South Florida)
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