The Orange Park community and the U.S. Navy are mourning the tragic loss of 21-year-old Noely Makenda, who was fatally shot in a shocking double homicide on Wednesday, December 17, 2025. Authorities confirmed that Makenda was killed in the front yard of her Oakleaf Plantation residence on the 4400 block of Hanging Moss Drive, alongside her roommate and fellow sailor, Jordyn Forrestier, 20.
The incident occurred around 11:20 p.m., when law enforcement responded to multiple 9-1-1 calls reporting gunfire. According to investigators, the shooter, 22-year-old Taylor Lomax, a roommate of the victims, fired approximately 30 rounds during a physical altercation between Lomax’s wife and the two Navy service members. Noely Makenda and Forrestier were struck multiple times and were pronounced deceased at the scene.
Both Makenda and Forrestier had served in the U.S. Navy, sharing a bond of service, dedication, and friendship. Authorities confirmed that the suspect and the victims all lived together, and that Lomax’s wife had visited the residence earlier that evening, leading to the confrontation that tragically ended in the deaths of the young women.
The suspect, Taylor Lomax, was immediately taken into custody and has been charged with two counts of second-degree murder, while his wife was interviewed and released.
Noely Makenda’s sudden passing has left family, friends, and fellow service members devastated. Community leaders and neighbors have expressed their condolences, emphasizing the profound loss of two young lives dedicated to serving their country.
Authorities are asking anyone with information about the incident to contact (904) 264-6512 or submit tips through the SaferWatch app, referencing case number 2025028638.
Makenda’s family and the community remember her as a bright, dedicated, and courageous young woman whose life was cut tragically short.
