Life Sentence for Convicted Murderer

19-year-old Previously Pled Guilty

A 19-year-old who pled guilty to Second Degree Murder, has been sentenced to the maximum of life in prison, with eligibility for parole after serving 18 years. Isaiah Smith, aka Isaiah Gathers, was convicted of fatally shooting a 24-year-old man at his apartment complex.

On September 6, 2021, Detectives with the Reno Police Department were called to Talus Way following reports of shots fired. During the investigation, detectives learned that the shooting had occurred because the victim had made an inappropriate comment to Smith’s 14-year-old sister. Witnesses told police that Smith and his mother were at a neighborhood barbecue and that Smith was heard saying that he would protect his sisters and be willing to go to jail for life. When leaving, he and his mother told witnesses that after tonight, they likely wouldn’t see him for a while. They went straight to Talus Way and Smith could be seen on Ring Surveillance approaching the victim’s apartment, wearing distinct clothing.  Smith removed the screen from the victim’s bedroom window and attempted to open the window, leaving DNA on the frame.  When the victim attempted to flea out of the front door, he was met by Smith and shot and killed in the breezeway in front of his apartment. After the shooting, he returned to the barbeque and attempted to burn the distinct clothing in the smoker.  Fortunately, the homeowner doused the flames and called detectives.

The day after the shooting, Smith arrived at the Washoe County Sheriff’s Office, telling law enforcement he wanted to turn himself in for the shooting.

During sentencing, Deputy District Attorney Nate MacLellan argued that the Defendant gave a glimpse into his mind when he informed the Court that he did not feel bad for the victim and tried to justify his actions.  He took the life of a beloved son, leaving a father and family in ruins.  For that, the sentence is just.

The Honorable Judge Scott Freeman imposed the sentence.