Orange Park, FL — A quiet Oakleaf Plantation street is now steeped in grief after a tragic late-night shooting left two U.S. Navy sailors dead and shocked neighbors scrambling for answers. On Wednesday around 11:30 p.m., Clay County Sheriff’s deputies responded to multiple 911 calls from the 4400 block of Hanging Moss Drive reporting gunfire at a home where three sailors lived together.
When law enforcement arrived, they found 21-year-old Noely Makenda and 20-year-old Jordyn Forrestier lying in the front yard with multiple gunshot wounds. Both were pronounced dead at the scene. Investigators quickly took 22-year-old Taylor Marques Lomax — also a Navy sailor — into custody at the scene.
According to the Clay County Sheriff’s Office, the deadly confrontation began after Lomax’s wife visited the home earlier that evening and got into an argument with Makenda and Forrestier. The verbal clash escalated into a physical fight in the front yard. At some point during the altercation, Lomax allegedly retrieved a handgun and fired more than 30 rounds, striking both women multiple times.
Neighbors later told reporters they heard the barrage of gunshots echoing through their normally peaceful neighborhood. One resident described hearing eight to ten shots before calling 911 and being warned by dispatchers to stay inside for safety. Another neighbor recalled hearing frantic cries for help in the chaos that followed the shooting.
Lomax’s wife reportedly called 911 to report the shooting. After deputies arrived, she was interviewed and subsequently released. Lomax, however, was charged with two counts of second-degree murder and is being held without bond as the investigation continues.
The loss has deeply affected the local community and the Navy family. Friends, family members, and fellow service members have shared heartfelt tributes to Makenda and Forrestier, remembering them as dedicated, courageous young women with bright futures and a strong commitment to serving their country.
Authorities are urging anyone with information about the case to reach out to the Clay County Sheriff’s Office at (904) 264-6512 or submit tips through the SaferWatch app, referencing case number 2025028638.
The post “Orange Park Mourns: 21-Year-Old Sailor Noely Makenda and Roommate Killed in Horrific Double Shooting” appeared first on Tripplenews.
