MONROE COUNTY, Mich. — The Monroe County community is reeling after two 16-year-olds, identified as Faith Renee Hamilton and Landon Lafond, were found shot to death Tuesday in a rural area of Raisinville Township.
The Monroe County Sheriff’s Office confirmed the teens’ identities in a news briefing Wednesday. According to Sheriff Troy Goodnough, their bodies were discovered outside a vehicle on Heiss Road near Steffas Road, after Hamilton’s uncle tracked her phone to the location and made the tragic discovery.
While the exact manner of death is pending results from the medical examiner’s office, investigators say initial evidence suggests the teens were in a dating relationship and had been in communication Tuesday morning before the fatal incident occurred.
Sheriff Goodnough noted that writings discovered inside Lafond’s vehicle indicated an apparent intent to end both his and Faith’s lives. However, authorities have not officially classified the incident as a murder-suicide at this time.
“We are treating this with care and thoroughness,” Goodnough said. “While certain evidence points in a specific direction, we are awaiting confirmation through forensic and investigative processes.”
He added there is no connection between this incident and a separate suspected murder-suicide in Bedford Township over the weekend, where 17-year-old Gwendolyn Smith was allegedly shot and killed by 33-year-old Ryne Leist, who then took his own life.
The sheriff acknowledged the emotional toll these back-to-back tragedies are having on the community. “It’s been a tragic week for Monroe County,” he said. “These events have had a significant impact, especially among our youth and school communities.”
The investigation remains ongoing. Authorities are encouraging anyone with relevant information to contact the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office. Grief counselors have also been made available at local schools to support students and families affected by the tragedy.
Faith Hamilton Obituary Monroe, MI — With heavy hearts and unimaginable sorrow, the family and friends of Faith Renee Hamilton announce her untimely passing. Faith, just 16 years old, was a beloved daughter, sister, cousin, and friend whose radiant personality and compassionate spirit left a lasting impact on everyone she met. Her sudden loss has devastated the Monroe community and left her loved ones grappling with profound grief.
Born and raised in Monroe, Faith Hamilton was known for her vibrant smile, warm heart, and an infectious laugh that could light up any room. She was a caring and thoughtful young woman who brought joy and love to her family and friends. Described by those closest to her as deeply loving, kind, and wise beyond her years, Faith’s presence was a gift to all who knew her.
She was the cherished daughter of Kyle and Lesa Hamilton, who adored her deeply and raised her with love and pride. As the big sister to Benny, Kynslee, and Kash, Faith embraced her role with strength and tenderness. Her siblings looked up to her not just for guidance, but for her playful energy and comforting presence. To her younger cousins, she was lovingly known as “Big Faith”—a nickname that captured both her nurturing spirit and the important role she played in their lives.
Faith’s compassion extended far beyond her immediate family. Whether helping a friend in need, being a shoulder to lean on, or simply sharing a kind word, Faith had a unique way of making others feel safe and loved. Her heart was enormous, and her ability to connect with people of all ages was something truly special.
Though her life was far too short, Faith Hamilton’s memory will live on in the countless lives she touched with her kindness, her love, and her unshakable spirit. Her legacy is one of love, strength, and a reminder of the deep value in every moment we share with those we care about.
In this time of overwhelming loss, Faith’s family is asking for privacy and patience as they begin to process the tragedy and work toward healing. The outpouring of support from friends, neighbors, and the community has been deeply appreciated, and they remain grateful for the prayers and kind words offered in Faith’s honor.
Plans for a memorial service to celebrate Faith’s life will be announced in the coming days.
Rest in eternal peace, Faith Renee Hamilton. You were taken far too soon, but your light continues to shine in the hearts of those who loved you. Your memory will be cherished always.