Published September 1, 2023 2:15PM
Updated 9:44PM
Suspect admits he shot TCU student 3 times, police say
FORT WORTH, Texas – A junior at Texas Christian University (TCU) was tragically killed in an apparent random act of violence in Fort Worth’s Entertainment District. Wes Smith, a beloved member of the TCU community, was shot and killed early Friday morning near the popular West 7th Street.
Fort Worth Police have arrested 21-year-old Matthew Purdy in connection with the shooting. According to authorities, Purdy admitted to shooting Smith three times and expressed his intention to harm more people if he had not run out of ammunition.
The incident occurred when Purdy approached Smith on Bledsoe Street, exchanged a few words, and then shot him multiple times. Purdy shot Smith in the stomach and shoulder, and when Smith fell to the ground, Purdy shot him in the back of the head. In a confession to detectives, Purdy stated that he shot Smith the third time to ensure his death.
After the shooting, Purdy fled the scene and assaulted a female as he attempted to escape. He later confessed that if he still had ammunition, he would have targeted that person as well. Purdy was apprehended by the police, but officers initially missed the gun that was still in his pants. He was caught with the weapon in his hands while in the back of the police car, where he attempted to discard it.
Purdy has been charged with murder and is currently being held at the Tarrant County jail on a $500,000 bond. At the time of the shooting, Purdy was on probation for an aggravated robbery charge.
Wes Smith, a finance major and member of the Kappa Sigma fraternity at TCU, was a well-respected student on campus. He had also been a walk-on to the Horned Frogs football team during his freshman year. The TCU community is devastated by his loss, and the university spokesperson expressed their grief and condolences to Smith’s family and friends.
Timothy Gibson, the head of school for St. George’s Independent School in Memphis, Tennessee, where Smith graduated in 2021, spoke highly of Smith’s character and achievements. Smith was a varsity football player, played basketball and lacrosse, and held leadership positions within the school.
The victim’s family is requesting privacy during this difficult time. Gibson emphasized the loss of a genuinely good person and the need for more individuals like Smith in the world.
St. George’s Independent School plans to honor Smith in the coming weeks, according to Gibson.
TCU has made counselors available on the 2nd floor of Jarvis Hall to provide support to students affected by this tragedy.
How is law enforcement working to ensure community safety in light of this shooting
Lder before shooting him a third time in the back as he tried to flee. Smith was rushed to the hospital but succumbed to his injuries.
The motive behind the shooting remains unclear, and authorities are investigating whether it was a targeted attack or a random act of violence. Fort Worth Police Chief, Jennifer Benton, stated that there is no known connection between the suspect and the victim at this time.
The TCU community is devastated by this senseless act of violence. Smith was a well-liked and respected student who was known for his kindness and dedication to his studies. He was studying business and had dreams of starting his own company after graduation.
In a statement released by TCU, Chancellor Victor J. Boschini expressed his condolences to Smith’s family and friends, saying, “This is a tragic loss for our university community. We will do everything we can to support those affected by this heartbreaking incident.”
The university is offering counseling services to students and staff who may be impacted by this tragedy. TCU is also working closely with law enforcement to ensure the safety and security of its campus.
As the investigation continues, authorities are urging anyone with information about the incident to come forward. They believe there may have been witnesses to the shooting who have yet to come forward.
Fort Worth Police are also urging the community to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity. They have increased patrols in the Entertainment District to ensure the safety of residents and visitors.
This tragic incident serves as a reminder of the importance of community safety and the need for continued efforts to reduce gun violence. The TCU community and the city of Fort Worth will mourn the loss of Wes Smith and work together to heal from this tragedy.
