Gavin Smith killed four members of his family in cold blood: Signs of a Psychopath investigates

Signs of a Psychopath is examining the shocking case of Gavin Smith, who killed four members of his family at their home in Elkview, West Virginia.

Smith was just 16 years old when he plotted and executed a plan to murder his mother, stepfather, and two younger brothers, including a three-year-old. In December 2020, he shot all four in the head.

The victims were Daniel Dale Long, 37, Risa Mae Saunders, 39, Gage Ripley, 12, and Jameson Long, 3.

He killed his stepfather, Daniel, and his mother, Risa Mae, as they slept in their bed. He then hunted down his two brothers; Jameson was hiding under his crib when he was killed.

The bodies were discovered by Smith’s father. The 16-year-old killer was found hiding behind a dresser at the home of his girlfriend, Rebecca Walker.

Smith seemingly killed his family so he could spend more time with his girlfriend. The parents and stepparents of both Smith and Walker were reportedly against their relationship and had forbidden them from spending time together. The young couple had managed to stay in touch through text and video messaging.

Rebecca Walker admitted role in murders and testified against Gavin Smith

The cops initially charged both juveniles with murder. Walker pleaded guilty to four counts of accessory after the fact to first-degree murder and was sentenced to ten years in prison.

As part of the deal, she agreed to testify against Smith, and the charge of murder against her was dropped.

Smith was on a video chat call with Walker as he committed the murders. He showed her the gun and knife and told her he planned to kill his family. In court, Walker admitted to encouraging him, telling him, “Hurry up and do it.”

Walker explained, “I was angry because I really didn’t quite understand why they had a problem with us being together. I was trying to be there for him. I was trying to be a good girlfriend.” She claimed she had not wanted the baby to die.

In December 2022, Smith was found guilty on three counts of first-degree murder, one count of second-degree murder, and one count of using a firearm during the commission of a felony.

Gavin Smith received three life sentences for killing family

The killer was given three life sentences, but he will be eligible for parole in 15 years. Judge Kenneth Ballard stressed that Smith was allowed parole only because West Virginia law demands that juveniles receive parole.

At the sentencing, Judge Ballard told Smith, “You murdered your entire family in cold blood, Mr. Smith. You devised this plan to kill your family days and weeks in advance for the selfish reason of spending time with your girlfriend… Your actions can only be described as an act of pure evil. I find that you have no remorse for your actions.”

Signs of a Psychopath airs Sundays at 10/9c on Investigation Discovery.