Hello, my name is Lakreshia, and I am starting this campaign with a heart heavier than words can describe. I am starting this GoFundMe because we need help with giving my nephew the farewell he deserves, help to keep my family afloat, and help to honor Caiden’s memory in a way that reflects the love and light he brought into this world. On Saturday, August 9, 2025, our world was shattered by a heartbreaking accident that claimed the life of 12-year-old Caiden Connor Smith.
While helping his older brother clean out their grandmother’s home in Cedar Grove, Shreveport, LA — as she had just been given only 24–48 hours to live after a long, hard battle with stage 4 stomach cancer — Caiden was involved in a tragic accidental shooting.
He was rushed to Ochsner LSU Health hospital, but despite the efforts of medical teams, Caiden passed away shortly after 9 p.m.
Caiden was a bright, loving, and energetic child who brought joy and laughter to everyone who knew him. His smile lit up every room, and his kindness touched countless hearts. He was a beloved son, grandson, brother, nephew, cousin, and friend. Losing him so suddenly has left a void in our hearts that can never be filled.
This tragedy comes with even deeper pain — Caiden’s father, Dwain Weathers Jr., was also taken from him far too soon. On May 31, 2020, Dwain lost his life in a shooting outside a home on Rufus Drive in Shreveport’s Mooretown neighborhood. Caiden grew up without his father, and now, in a cruel twist of fate, our family must endure the unimaginable loss of Caiden as well.
On top of the emotional devastation, the family is facing a heavy financial burden. Caiden’s mother, who had worked faithfully at her job for the past 6 ½ years, unexpectedly lost her position — leaving her without a steady income at the worst possible time. Between funeral costs, supporting her other children, and the ongoing expenses of daily life, this loss has left the family in urgent need of help.
This GoFundMe has been created to help cover funeral and burial expenses, provide financial support for the family during this time of loss, and honor Caiden’s memory.
No family should ever have to endure so much heartbreak in such a short time — losing a father to violence, a beloved child to a tragic accident, a grandmother to terminal illness, and the stability of a steady income all at once.
Your donation, no matter the amount, will help relieve some of the crushing weight this family is carrying. If you cannot give, please share this campaign so we can surround this grieving family with love, prayers, and support.
Rest peacefully, sweet Caiden. You are reunited with your father now. You will always be loved, remembered, and missed.
️ #Forever12 #CaidenConnorSmith #JusticeForDwain
Date of Passing: August 9, 2025
Location: Shreveport, LA
Donations will go directly to the Smith family for funeral arrangements, household expenses, and support during this time of unimaginable loss.