CINCINNATI (WKRC) – The family of Tristen Smith, a 15-year-old girl who was shot and killed on Monday in Elsmere, came together with friends to celebrate her life by releasing balloons.
The gathering, which took place at her mother’s residence, brought together many of Smith’s friends and fellow cheerleaders to express their sorrow and recall cherished memories.
“I’m heartbroken,” said Jamie Haggard, a friend of Smith’s.
“All you see are tears due to how deeply this affected all of us,” said Amyah Thompson, another friend.
Kara Musgrove, who has been familiar with Smith all her life, found it hard to grasp the loss.
“I’m having trouble understanding it. It doesn’t feel real,” Musgrove remarked.
Musgrove referred to Tristen as “the most pleasant girl to be with.”
“She can illuminate any room she enters. She’s simply an enjoyable person,” said Musgrove.
The balloon event showcased a sea of pink and yellow, Smith’s preferred colors. Kaylee Chambers, another friend, expressed her lasting fondness for her friend.
“She will always be in my heart. I will never stop missing her,” said Chambers.
Friends shared their favorite recollections of Smith, mentioning sleepovers and her passion for cheerleading.
She enjoyed cheering. She enjoyed dancing. She enjoyed creating TikToks,” Musgrove mentioned. “She was simply a joyful person overall. She was kind to everyone.
Numerous guests wore t-shirts featuring their favorite image of Smith. Chambers hoped she would be remembered as “a beautiful, kind, and humorous individual who could brighten any space.” Musgrove thanked everyone for the support they received at the event.
I’m truly happy that she had all the people who loved her, who are here today, and will continue to love her forever,” Musgrove stated. “We will always miss her.
Smith was a first-year student at Harrison High School and was excited about joining the cheerleading squad again this year. Her mother disclosed that the individual charged with Tristen’s murder is her daughter’s 15-year-old boyfriend.
