Brandon Smith, a 45-year-old football coach, was found unresponsive with gunshot wounds outside Yank’s Place on Idaho Avenue in Farrell, Pennsylvania.
The incident happened just after 1 a.m. on Sunday, September 21, 2025. He was rushed to the hospital, but sadly, he did not survive. The coroner later ruled his death a homicide.
Shortly after, police discovered a second crime scene on Wilson Road near Swamp Road. Shots had been fired at Smith’s car, and several nearby vehicles were also hit.
Because of the seriousness of the case, the Farrell Police Department turned the investigation over to the Pennsylvania State Police.
At first, the man’s identity was not known. Later, he was identified as Brandon Smith, a beloved football coach, former Farrell Area School District student, and long-time community member.
Most recently, he served as a youth football coach. The school district released a heartfelt statement, saying they were deeply saddened by his passing.
They called him a “beloved coach” and said his death was both tragic and senseless.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with his mother, children, family, friends, and the students and community that he loved and served,” the statement read.
To support students and staff through this loss, the district also brought in counselors from Mercer County Behavioral Health.
Brandon Smith is remembered not only as a dedicated coach but also as a loving father, son, and community member.
Brandon Smith Hails From Sharon, Pennsylvania
Brandon Duane Smith, known to many as Coach Bran, was born on January 18, 1980, in Sharon, Pennsylvania, to his parents, Karen Smith and the late Rudolph Wright.
Smith grew up in Farrell and studied at the Farrell Area School District. He played football and basketball as a student and graduated from Farrell High School in 1999.
Later, the late coach went to Indiana University of Pennsylvania, Kittanning Campus, to study business management.
Talking about his career, the football coach worked as a Maintenance Technician at the Mercer County Housing Authority. People at work and in the community knew him for his kind spirit, his laughter, and how he made others feel valued.
Furthermore, Smith also gave a lot of his time to the community. He was the Head Coach for the Farrell youth football programs. He is said to have guided many young athletes, giving them hope, confidence, and joy.
Additionally, Brandon’s biggest pride was his family. He was the loving father of 12 children: Brandon Smith Chambers, Kailynn Satterwhite, Jhailyn Richardson, Tahjmere Gibson, Kabron Smith, Tyerra Hopson, Lamir Smith, Laila Smith, Sheldon Smith, Braydon Smith, Ozias Smith, and Mohini Smith.
The 45-year-old was also a grandfather to Brailyn Smith Chambers and Nasir Waggoner.
He leaves behind his mother, Karen Smith; his siblings, Lamont Hailstock, Sr., Marissa Venable, and Josh Williams; and his grandmother, Alda D. Smith.
To honor Brandon’s life, the family has arranged a public viewing and visitation on Monday, September 29, 2025, from 5:00 – 7:00 p.m. at Greater Morris Chapel AME Church, 926 Darr Ave, Farrell, PA.
Another visitation hour will be on Tuesday, September 30, 2025, at 10:00 a.m., at the same location.
The Celebration of Life service will begin at 11:00 a.m. After the service, Brandon will be laid to rest at Oakwood Cemetery, located at 600 N. Oakland Ave, Sharon, Pennsylvania.
Though he is no longer here, his memory and his impact will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.
The Smith family has entrusted J.E. Washington Funeral Services in Farrell, Pennsylvania, with the final arrangements.
In Case You Didn’t Know
- A man named Michael A. Cox Jr., 34, from New Castle, Pennsylvania, has been charged in connection with the shooting.
- He faces charges of criminal homicide, aggravated assault, and a firearms violation.
- Police say Cox fired shots outside Yank’s Place in Farrell early Sunday morning, September 21, 2025, which led to the death of Brandon Smith.
