Jacob and Jenna Smith

The Butler County Coroner’s office confirmed homicide was the cause of death for a married couple who allegedly shot at each other Monday, May 29 at a park and ride on Perry Highway in Muddy Creek Township.

Jessica McMurray, assistant deputy coroner, said Thursday that Jacob Christian Smith, 31, died of a gunshot wound in the chest area, and Jenna Christine Smith, 28, died of multiple gunshot wounds in the chest area. The couple is from Pulaski Township, Lawrence County.

The autopsies were completed Tuesday.

Police said during their investigation, it was discovered that Jenna and Jacob were armed with pistols and exchanged gunfire inside the vehicle following an altercation.

First responders were dispatched after a passerby reported two gunshot-wound victims at the park and ride at 5:26 p.m.

According to state police, initial reports said Jenna was lying on the ground beside a Chrysler 300, bleeding and unresponsive. Jacob was found in the passenger seat, police said.

Though lifesaving measures were performed, both died at the scene, police said.

According to state police from New Castle, Jacob was reported missing on April 12 by Jenna. Police believed at the time that he was suicidal.

The search was canceled two days later, after police said Jacob had been located.

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