by HARTFORD, CT – A solemn funeral service at Gospel Lighthouse Church on Main Street erupted into chaos on May 9, when a longstanding family dispute escalated into a violent brawl involving both a shooting and a stabbing — all while the decedent’s body remained at the front of the sanctuary.
Authorities say mourners fled in panic as gunfire and screaming filled the church, leaving bullet holes in the walls and blood on the floor.
What Triggered the Violence
According to court records and an arrest warrant, the disturbance stemmed from an ongoing conflict between Joshua Smellie, 34, of Hartford, and a woman identified as his great-aunt.
Witnesses told police that during the funeral, Smellie allegedly began physically assaulting the woman, prompting several family members and attendees to try to intervene.
Instead of de-escalating, police say Smellie pulled a small turquoise handgun and fired multiple rounds into the crowd. One bullet struck a woman in the hip.
That woman, who legally owns her firearm and has not been arrested, then allegedly returned fire with her handgun, firing a single shot that apparently missed Smellie.
Stabbing Amid the Chaos
While shots were still being fired, Kendra Faucette, 40, of Hartford — Smellie’s sister — allegedly stabbed another relative.
According to NH Register, The stabbing victim told police he was trying to pull his mother away from the fight when he suddenly felt a “warmth” on his side. Looking down, he realized he had been stabbed twice and saw Faucette holding a knife.
Hospital staff later confirmed the man had two stab wounds. Both he and the shooting victim sustained non-life-threatening injuries but required emergency treatment.
Additional Suspect Involved
The warrant also states that Courtney Hawkins, 43, Faucette’s older brother, allegedly punched the stabbing victim in the head during the altercation.
Investigators say Hawkins then asked Faucette to hide his handgun while the chaos continued. Because Faucette has a felony conviction for second-degree assault, she is legally prohibited from possessing firearms or ammunition.
Arrests and Charges
Police made several arrests following the funeral violence:
- Joshua Smellie – Charged with first-degree assault, criminal possession of a firearm, criminal use of a firearm, risk of injury to a minor, first-degree reckless endangerment, and third-degree assault on an elderly person.
- Kendra Faucette – Charged with second-degree assault and criminal possession of a firearm.
- Courtney Hawkins – Charged with criminal possession of a firearm.
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Weapons Seized
Officers recovered both firearms used during the incident:
- The 9mm Ruger allegedly fired by Smellie.
- The .380-caliber Ruger allegedly belonging to Hawkins.
Both guns are being processed for ballistic evidence.
Impact on the Community
Police say the violent outbreak deeply shocked attendees, many of whom were friends and relatives of the deceased. Faith leaders in Hartford expressed concern that even places of worship are now vulnerable to family disputes turning violent.
“This was a sacred space meant for mourning and remembrance,” one community leader said. “Instead, it became a crime scene. That’s heartbreaking for everyone involved.”
Ongoing Investigation
The Hartford Police Department confirmed that the investigation is still active and more charges could be filed as detectives review evidence and interview additional witnesses.
Officials have not disclosed details about the decedent whose funeral was disrupted but say they are working to ensure the family can hold a peaceful memorial service in the future.
Police are also reviewing whether security measures should be increased at large public funerals in the city to prevent similar incidents.
Should places of worship implement stricter security during large family gatherings like funerals? Share your thoughts in the comments and stay updated with breaking developments at ibwhsmag.com.
