SMITH TOWNSHIP, PA — A quiet residential neighborhood in Washington County was shattered early Sunday morning after a violent home invasion on Eleanor Street left a mother dead and her adult son seriously wounded. The tragic incident occurred around 1:15 a.m. in Smith Township, just outside of Burgettstown, and has left residents shaken and Pennsylvania State Police working urgently to identify the masked intruders responsible.
The horrifying scene began when multiple armed suspects, dressed in black clothing and wearing masks, forced their way into the home of 37-year-old Renee Gill, who was residing with her two sons. Authorities say the suspects confronted Renee, engaging in a heated argument before violence erupted. It is unclear what led to the argument, but the confrontation quickly escalated into a deadly attack. Renee’s older son, in his early 20s, tried to intervene and defend his mother, but tragically, one of the suspects opened fire, striking both Renee and her son.
Renee succumbed to her injuries at the scene, while her son, severely injured by the gunshots, was rushed to a nearby hospital. Despite the seriousness of his wounds, state police report that he is expected to survive. A younger son, believed to be a minor, was also present in the home during the attack but, thankfully, was physically unharmed.
The suspects, who fled the scene before law enforcement arrived, are still at large. Investigators are working hard to piece together the details of the incident, and authorities believe the suspects were familiar with the residence. “There has to be some sort of connection there,” said Trooper Rocco Gagliardi with the Pennsylvania State Police. “Whether it’s a relative, a prior dispute, or something from a work or personal history — it’s at the top of our list of questions. The suspects seemed to know the residence and the people inside in some capacity.”
State police have confirmed that both Renee and her son made 911 calls during the incident, and their ability to provide critical details while the situation was unfolding may prove vital to the investigation. “She was still somewhat able to talk and communicate during the phone call,” Gagliardi explained. “That gave us critical insight — possibly even audio in the background — that may help identify what exactly was happening inside that house and who was involved.”
While the police work to gather information from the scene and continue the investigation, the emotional toll on the community is already evident. Local residents expressed their shock and sorrow over the violence that occurred in what was once considered a safe, tight-knit neighborhood.
Neighbors described Renee as a kind and resilient woman who was fiercely protective of her children. “She was the kind of person who would give you the shirt off her back,” said a neighbor who asked to remain anonymous. “To think someone came into her home and did this… it’s just unimaginable.” The grief shared by friends, neighbors, and family members is palpable, as the tragic event has deeply affected not just the Gill family but the community as a whole.
Renee’s death has sparked an outpouring of support for the surviving family members, especially her wounded son. Many in the community have offered their condolences and practical help, providing meals, prayers, and financial support to the family during this incredibly difficult time. In addition to dealing with the emotional trauma, the Gill family faces the financial burden of funeral expenses and medical bills.
The Pennsylvania State Police, working alongside other law enforcement agencies, are leaving no stone unturned in their quest to solve the crime. They are reviewing surveillance footage from nearby homes and businesses in the hope that a clue will emerge, and investigators are also collecting forensic evidence at the scene. “We are doing everything we can to find the suspects,” said Trooper Gagliardi. “Our priority is bringing them to justice, and we are asking the public for help.”
State police have urged anyone in the Burgettstown or Smith Township area who may have seen or heard anything suspicious around the time of the attack to come forward. They are particularly interested in any home surveillance, Ring doorbell footage, or reports of unfamiliar vehicles or individuals in the area. The investigation has gained local attention, and the community is anxious for answers.
A GoFundMe campaign has been set up to support the Gill family during this difficult time, with funds to go toward funeral expenses and assisting with the recovery of Renee’s son. Community leaders, along with local clergy, have expressed their sympathy and pledged to continue supporting the family throughout this incredibly challenging period. Pastor Jerome Brooks, who leads a church near the family’s home, offered heartfelt words about the tragedy. “This is a reminder of how fragile life is. Renee gave her life for her children, and we honor her for that,” he said. “The whole community grieves, but we will stand together to ensure her children feel our support.”
As the search for the suspects continues, authorities remain hopeful that, with the public’s assistance, the people responsible for Renee’s death will be brought to justice. “We have some leads we’re following up on, but we need the community to help us,” Trooper Gagliardi emphasized. “If anyone has any information, no matter how small it may seem, it could be the key we need to crack the case.”
The tragic loss of Renee Gill serves as a painful reminder of the ever-present dangers that can disrupt peaceful communities. It is a stark and heartbreaking illustration of how quickly a life can be changed by senseless violence.
As the investigation moves forward and the search for the individuals responsible continues, Renee’s family and community are left to mourn the loss of a loving mother and cherished friend. Her selflessness, resilience, and love for her family were evident to all who knew her, and the memory of her sacrifice will remain forever etched in the hearts of those who loved her.
A memorial service and vigil are being planned by the Smith Township community, where residents will gather to honor Renee’s life and legacy. The vigil will provide an opportunity for the community to come together, share their grief, and show solidarity with the Gill family.
As the Smith Township community rallies around the Gill family and awaits justice, the pain of losing Renee will remain, but her legacy of love, kindness, and selflessness will continue to resonate with everyone who had the privilege of knowing her.
Anyone with information regarding the home invasion is encouraged to contact Pennsylvania State Police Washington at (724) 223-5200. Tips can also be submitted anonymously through Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477).
