Robert Smith was 68 when he was killed in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, on December 28, 2007. His death occurred amid a period of persistent violence in the city: Pittsburgh averaged about 51 homicides a year between 2000 and 2012, with firearms involved in the majority of cases.

The city’s crime landscape then included high rates of aggravated assaults and shootings that affected public perception and community safety. Most homicide victims during that era were male, with a notable number of older victims and some connected to public services such as aging assistance. Smith’s case is one of many that contributed to a low clearance rate for homicides in the region, leaving families without closure.

If anyone knew Robert Smith or has information about his death, please share what you remember.