Smith Township, PA – A peaceful neighborhood in Washington County is in mourning after a horrific home invasion claimed the life of 37-year-old Renee Gill and left her adult son seriously injured in the early morning hours of Sunday, June 15, 2025. The violent incident, which unfolded around 1:15 a.m. on Ellenor Street near Burgettstown, has shaken the tight-knit Smith Township community and left many seeking answers as state police intensify the search for the masked intruders responsible.
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Armed Intruders Break Into Home, Violence Ensues
According to Pennsylvania State Police, several armed suspects dressed in black and wearing masks forcibly entered Renee Gill’s home, where she lived with her two sons. A heated confrontation broke out between Renee and the intruders, the cause of which remains under investigation. Her elder son, a man in his early 20s, attempted to defend his mother, but the confrontation escalated rapidly, ending in gunfire.
Renee was fatally shot and died at the scene. Her older son also suffered gunshot wounds and was rushed to a nearby hospital in critical condition. Authorities report that he is expected to survive. Renee’s younger son, a minor, was present in the house during the attack but was unharmed physically.
Police Investigation Underway: Suspects Still at Large
Law enforcement officials believe the suspects may have known the Gill family in some capacity, suggesting a possible connection. Trooper Rocco Gagliardi of the Pennsylvania State Police stated, “There appears to be a relationship or familiarity. Whether it’s personal, professional, or otherwise—we’re exploring every angle.”
Both Renee and her injured son managed to dial 911 during the invasion, providing police with potentially critical information. “Renee was able to speak during the call, and that gave us valuable insight—perhaps even identifying background voices or details about the attackers,” Gagliardi added.
Investigators are now reviewing surveillance footage from neighboring homes and businesses and collecting forensic evidence from the crime scene in hopes of identifying the suspects. Anyone with home security or Ring doorbell footage from the Ellenor Street area between midnight and 2 a.m. is urged to come forward.
Community in Mourning: Remembering Renee Gill
News of Renee Gill’s tragic death has left the Smith Township community reeling. Friends and neighbors describe her as a kind-hearted, resilient woman devoted to her children and always ready to help others.
“She was the kind of person who’d give you the shirt off her back,” said a neighbor. “To think someone could walk into her home and do this is absolutely unimaginable.”
Renee’s selflessness and love for her children were evident to all who knew her. Her sacrifice in trying to protect her family has been hailed as both heartbreaking and heroic. Community members are rallying around her surviving children, offering prayers, meals, and financial assistance during this time of profound grief.
A Community Response: Support and Solidarity
A GoFundMe campaign has been launched to assist the Gill family with funeral expenses and ongoing medical costs for Renee’s son. Community leaders, including local pastors and township officials, have voiced their condolences and pledged continued support.
Pastor Jerome Brooks, who leads a nearby church, offered a moving tribute: “Renee gave her life trying to protect her children. Her bravery will never be forgotten. As a community, we grieve together, and we will stand with her children through this.”
A candlelight vigil is being organized later this week in Smith Township to honor Renee’s life and show solidarity with her family. The event will provide space for residents to mourn together, share memories, and send a message against violence in their neighborhoods.
A Call for Justice and Public Help
The Pennsylvania State Police continue to follow several leads but are appealing to the public for any additional information that could help identify the attackers.
“If you saw or heard anything suspicious—vehicles, individuals, anything—please come forward,” said Trooper Gagliardi. “Even the smallest detail could be the key to solving this case.”
Anyone with information is urged to contact the Pennsylvania State Police in Washington at (724) 223-5200, or submit tips anonymously through Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477).
In Loving Memory: Renee Gill
The devastating loss of Renee Gill serves as a chilling reminder of how swiftly violence can upend even the safest of communities. She is remembered not only for her courage and selflessness but for the love and light she brought into the lives of those around her.
As her family faces an unimaginable void, they find strength in the outpouring of support from neighbors, friends, and strangers alike. Though her life was cut short, Renee’s legacy of love and devotion will live on in the hearts of her children and the entire Smith Township community.
Rest in peace, Renee. Your courage and compassion will never be forgotten.
