The South Fulton community is mourning Kelvin Smith, a 55-year-old engineering teacher at Westlake High School who was fatally shot by his younger brother in southwest Atlanta. Police are investigating the deaths as a murder-suicide.
According to the Atlanta Police Department, officers responded to a home on Head Road SW on Tuesday evening, October 6, after receiving a report of a shooting. They found an adult male with a gunshot wound who was pronounced dead at the scene. The suspected shooter was later found nearby with a self-inflicted gunshot wound and also died.
Police have not publicly identified Smith’s younger brother or disclosed what led to the shooting. The investigation remains ongoing.
A Teacher Who Made a Difference
Smith is being remembered as a devoted educator, mentor, father and grandfather whose influence extended far beyond the classroom.
A Georgia Institute of Technology graduate, Smith worked as an engineer before entering education. His family said he initially pursued teaching because he wanted to teach his own children, but the profession soon became a passion through which he inspired countless young people.
At Westlake, Smith taught engineering and encouraged students to explore their abilities. He also spent 17 summers at Phillips Academy in Andover, Massachusetts, where he created the “Beyond Robots Program,” combining his engineering background with his commitment to student learning.
Smith previously taught at KIPP WAYS and served as a founding teacher at KIPP Woodson Park Academy, both part of KIPP Atlanta Schools.
‘He Protected Us Until His Last Moments’
Smith’s family is also remembering him for his love and dedication to those closest to him.
His son, Kwaku Smith, said his father protected the family during the shooting, describing his actions as a testament to his character.
Smith’s former wife, Desiree Smith, called him the most positive and optimistic person she had ever known. The two raised three adult children and were also raising two grandchildren together.
His daughter, Ayanna Smith, said her father served as a father figure to hundreds, if not thousands, of students. Friends and family remembered his generosity, encouragement, playful personality and ability to make people feel appreciated.
A Community Mourns a Beloved Educator
Westlake High School’s principal expressed heartbreak over Smith’s death, praising his passion for teaching, positive spirit and ability to help students recognize their potential.
KIPP Atlanta Schools also offered condolences, remembering Smith as an educator who helped shape its school community.
As family, colleagues, former students and friends grieve, Smith’s legacy continues through the young people he mentored and the lives he touched through education, kindness and encouragement.
Y’all Know What extends its heartfelt condolences to Kelvin Smith’s family, friends, students, colleagues and everyone mourning his tragic loss. May his legacy of love, mentorship and service continue to inspire the countless lives he touched.
Stay tuned to Y’all Know What for more community news and updates.
