The quiet of early morning in Lubbock was shattered by gunfire on September 1, 2026, leaving a community in distress. A shooting at an apartment complex near the intersection of 19th Street and Elkhart resulted in a fatality and serious injuries, sending shockwaves through the neighborhood.
The Lubbock Metropolitan Special Crimes Unit is diligently investigating the incident, which occurred at approximately 5:13 a.m. The scene unfolded in the 5500 block of 19th Street where officers responded to reports of shots fired.
The Victims: Neighbors, Not Relatives
Officers arrived to find Malcom Smith 34, in his apartment with a gunshot wound. He was rushed to University Medical Center with serious injuries. Tragically, Parris Smith 24, was found dead at the scene. Despite sharing the last name, the two men were neighbors but not related.
Preliminary investigations suggest that Parris Smith may have been under the influence and armed when he requested entry into Malcom Smith’s apartment. Once inside, the situation escalated rapidly. Parris Smith reportedly fired his weapon through the floor into the apartment below, then turned the gun on Malcom Smith before ultimately shooting himself.
The Aftermath and Ongoing Investigation
Fortunately, no other injuries were reported in the first-floor apartment below. The investigation is ongoing, with authorities working to piece together the events leading up to the tragic incident. The community is left to grapple with the aftermath, seeking answers and support in the wake of this senseless violence.
The Lubbock Police Department continues to urge anyone with information to come forward, emphasizing the importance of community cooperation in solving such crimes. As the investigation unfolds, the focus remains on understanding the motives and circumstances that led to this early morning tragedy.
The impact of this event extends beyond the immediate victims, affecting the broader community. It serves as a stark reminder of the importance of addressing issues related to gun violence and mental health support. The road to recovery for those affected will be long, but with community support and ongoing investigations, there is hope for justice and healing.
