Thomas Paulie Smith Jr. was 16 when he was shot and killed on December 17, 2022, while visiting family in Antioch, California. Known as Paulie, he and his cousin walked to Williamson Ranch Park that morning; around 11:20 AM multiple gunshots were reported and Thomas was found with several gunshot wounds near the park parking lot. He was transported to a local hospital but died from his injuries despite efforts by paramedics and his mother, Nakia Banks, who had arrived at the scene.

Investigators say a dark-colored sedan was seen leaving the park at high speed. Witnesses reported Thomas and his cousin had met with occupants of that vehicle shortly before the shooting. Police detained a 15-year-old at a nearby Walmart who had a loaded firearm, but that juvenile was later treated as an acquaintance and arrested on unrelated charges. No arrests have been announced in connection with Thomas’s murder.

Thomas enjoyed music and art, played the tuba, and liked anime, video games and dancing. His mother has spoken publicly about her grief and urged anyone with information to come forward. If anyone has information about what happened at Williamson Ranch Park that morning, please share it with Antioch police.