Port Huron, MI — September 11, 2025 — A tragic act of family violence has left one teenager dead and two younger children fighting for their lives after their father allegedly opened fire inside their home early Thursday morning. Police say 44-year-old Jeff Smerer has been taken into custody and is facing multiple charges in connection with the shooting.
A Morning Turned Deadly
Authorities report that the shooting occurred around 6 a.m. at an apartment complex on Glenview Court, near the intersection of Krafft Road and 24th Avenue (M-25). Residents in the area awoke to the sounds of chaos as emergency crews rushed to the scene.
According to investigators, Smerer allegedly shot his three children inside the family’s apartment. His 17-year-old son, Kayleb Smerer, died at the scene. Two other children — a 13-year-old boy and a 12-year-old girl — sustained critical injuries and were rushed to the hospital, where they remain in intensive care.
Family Intervention Prevented More Violence
Police confirmed that the children’s mother and older brother bravely intervened during the attack. They reportedly wrestled with Smerer, managing to stop him before he could fire further shots. Authorities believe their quick actions prevented an even greater tragedy.
Suspect in Custody
Officers arrived minutes later and took Smerer into custody without further incident. He is currently being held while investigators piece together the timeline and motive behind the shooting. Police have not yet confirmed what led to the violence, but the case is being treated with the utmost seriousness.
Community Shaken
The shocking nature of the crime has left the Port Huron community reeling. Neighbors described the Smerer children as polite and well-liked, often seen playing in the complex’s shared spaces. Many expressed disbelief that such violence could erupt in what is normally a quiet residential area.
“This is every parent’s nightmare, and it’s unimaginable that it came from their own father,” one neighbor told reporters. “We’re heartbroken for those kids and their mother.”
Local schools are preparing to offer counseling and support services for students and staff affected by the tragedy. Community leaders are also urging residents to come together in support of the surviving family members.
Investigation Ongoing
The Port Huron Police Department, along with the St. Clair County Prosecutor’s Office, continues to investigate. Detectives are interviewing family members, neighbors, and potential witnesses, while forensic teams process the scene.
Authorities say more details about potential charges against Smerer will be released in the coming days.
A Family Forever Changed
For the Smerer family, life has been shattered in the span of minutes. A son has been lost, two children are fighting for survival, and a mother and sibling are left grappling with trauma no family should ever endure.
Community members have already begun discussing vigils and support efforts, with many calling for prayers and donations to help the family through what will be a long and painful journey.