Kastady Smith, a 37-year-old Temple woman killed in an apparent murder-suicide, was a dedicated Belton Independent School District (BISD) employee and the mother of two students at Lake Belton High School. Her death has left the community in shock and mourning as authorities investigate the devastating incident.
The tragedy occurred on Friday evening at a residence in the 9000 block of Cantera Ridge Road in West Temple. Temple Police officers responded to reports of a shooting around 8 p.m.
Upon arrival, they discovered Kastady Smith had been fatally shot. Preliminary findings indicate the incident stemmed from a domestic violence altercation. Joseph Smith, also 37 and believed to be the perpetrator, was later found dead inside the home from a self-inflicted gunshot wound.
Police have confirmed there is no ongoing threat to the public, and the case is being investigated as a murder-suicide. Kastady Smith was remembered as a beloved administrative assistant at BISD.
Superintendent Dr. Malinda Golden expressed her condolences, calling Smith’s death “a tremendous loss to the Belton ISD family.” Dr. Golden emphasized the district’s commitment to supporting Smith’s two sons, her colleagues, and all those impacted by her passing.
“I am incredibly grateful for the outpouring of community support we have received — it truly makes a difference for our students and staff,” she said. To help those struggling to cope, the district has made crisis teams available at its campuses.
In the wake of this heartbreaking loss, the community has rallied around Smith’s two sons, who attend Lake Belton High School. A Meal Train campaign organized by Summer Lockett has raised over $11,500 as of Monday evening, surpassing its initial goal of $7,500.
The funds will provide financial support to Smith’s children as they navigate this unimaginably difficult time. Temple Police have called on anyone with information about the incident to come forward.
They can be reached at 254-298-5500 or through Bell County Crime Stoppers at 254-526-8477, where tips can be reported anonymously. Additional details about the case are currently unavailable as the investigation continues.
Kastady Smith’s tragic death sheds light on the pervasive issue of domestic violence, which affects individuals and families across communities. This incident serves as a somber reminder of the importance of seeking help and raising awareness to prevent such tragedies.
Resources for those experiencing domestic violence, including hotlines and community organizations, are available and can provide critical support to those in need.
As the Temple community grieves, they remember Kastady Smith not only for her professional contributions to Belton ISD but also for her role as a loving mother, colleague, and friend.
Her legacy will be carried forward by the many lives she touched, and the collective effort to support her children demonstrates the strength and compassion of the community during this difficult time.
