Unfortunate and sad news is coming out of Columbus, Ohio, revealing that Dariene Smith — younger sister of Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) Lightweight contender, Devonte Smith — was shot and killed outside of an area nightclub early Saturday morning (July 11, 2020).
According to 10 WBNS, Smith was leaving a local nightclub with a group of friends when she was struck by a stray bullet after another group nearby started fighting, which resulted in gunshots being fired. After being transported to a local hospital, Dariene was pronounced dead.
Devonte issued a heartfelt message regarding the senseless killing of his younger sister via social media:
“Everyday I will have to wake up and accept that your gone. So many emotions and thoughts right now that I can’t tell what’s normal or illogical thinking. Idk what to think or how to feel. My little sister man, shot and killed ... mine. so much rage and anger but idk where to place it. Seeing you lay there hoping you wake up but you never did really did something to my heart and soul. I Cried so much I got a headache and kept crying. You will forever be my little sister. I WILL ALWAYS LOVE YOU. One of the worst days of my life. Ima miss you so much, words can’t truly describe how I’m feeling in my heart.”
Smith was a single mother and leaves behind two children ages six and two. A GoFundMe account has been set up in her name to not only help cover funeral expenses, but to help provide for her young daughter and son.
Darien was just 23 years old.