Dantrell Smith, 31, was shot and killed while working at the O’Reilly Auto Parts on State Street in East St. Louis, Illinois, on January 7, 2024, at about 6:30 p.m. He was pronounced dead at the scene and authorities have released limited details about the circumstances; the investigation remains ongoing.

Smith was active in local youth and violence-prevention efforts, including the Youth Policy Council of Teens Against Killing Everywhere (TAKE) and YouthBuild St. Clair County. Family members describe him as charismatic, intelligent, and committed to his community. His aunt Kellie Vincent stressed the depth of the loss and called for an end to the cycle of gun violence; a GoFundMe was launched to help cover funeral expenses. O’Reilly Auto Parts expressed sorrow and said it is cooperating with law enforcement.

If anyone has information about what happened at the State Street store on the evening of January 7, please share tips with investigators.