Sahmir Marquan Toliaferro was 20 when he was killed on the evening of May 21, 2023, while helping stray dogs in his Kensington neighborhood of Philadelphia. Known by the nickname Smiley, he was remembered as intellectually gifted from a young age — placed in a specialized school after scoring highest on an elementary aptitude test — and as a devoted reader who loved books about underdogs and controversial historical figures and admired Maya Angelou. Family described him as the glue of the household who cared deeply for animals and dreamed of running a kennel.

Police say Sahmir was carrying cash outside a store when an individual, reportedly motivated by a desperate need for money, shot him multiple times; he died at the scene and another person was injured. Authorities report a possible suspect was involved in a barricade with police before surrendering and an arrest was made and charged in connection with the killing. A memorial service was held for Sahmir.

If anyone knew Sahmir, his routines in Kensington, or saw anything relevant on May 21, 2023, please come forward with information.