Texas gunman Matthew Purdy sentenced to 60 years for murdering TCU student Wes Smith

A Texas gunman, Matthew Purdy, has been sentenced to 60 years in prison for the random shooting of Texas Christian University student Wes Smith. The incident occurred outside a bar in Fort Worth, Texas, where Purdy approached Smith and shot him three times, including once in the back of the head. Smith, a junior finance major and D1 FBS walk-on at TCU, was helping a friend into a car when he was attacked by Purdy.

Purdy, who was 21 at the time of the shooting, asked Smith if he knew who his father was before pulling out a gun and firing multiple shots at him. Despite being struck twice in the stomach and shoulder, Smith collapsed to the ground. Purdy then shot him in the back of the head to ensure he was dead. During the chaos, Purdy also assaulted an 18-year-old woman who was trying to flee the scene.

Following the shooting, Purdy was arrested by police two blocks away. He confessed to the attack and admitted that he would have shot more people if he had not run out of ammunition. Purdy’s defense team had filed for an insanity defense, claiming he suffered from schizophrenia and fetal alcohol spectrum disorder. They also mentioned Purdy’s mother’s history of mental health issues and substance abuse during pregnancy.

Purdy pleaded guilty to Smith’s murder, as well as several other felonies, including aggravated assault and robbery. He was sentenced to a total of 206 years in prison, to be served concurrently. During the sentencing hearing, Smith’s father, Phillip, condemned Purdy for his actions, calling him out for his “dark and ugly soul.” He described his son as a hero for taking the final bullet, preventing further harm.

Smith’s mother, Doree, also addressed Purdy in court, expressing her grief over the loss of her son. She described Wes as a compassionate individual who would have responded with kindness if given the chance. She urged Purdy to seek redemption and live a life of love and compassion, in honor of her son who is now in Heaven.

The heartbreaking story of Wes Smith’s tragic death serves as a reminder of the devastating impact of senseless violence. The Smith family’s emotional statements in court highlight the profound loss they have experienced and the hope for justice and healing in the aftermath of such a senseless act.