News Summary
Nearly two years after a devastating shooting spree in Orlando, families of the victims are filing a lawsuit against the Orange County Sheriff’s Office. The legal action follows allegations of negligence and racial discrimination in response to the tragic events that resulted in multiple fatalities, including a young girl and a news reporter. As the community mourns, the quest for accountability and justice intensifies.
Orlando Residents Seek Justice After 2023 Tragic Shooting Spree
Orlando, Florida – Nearly two years after a devastating shooting spree rocked the community, the Orange County Sheriff’s Office is now facing a lawsuit filed by the families of the victims. The lawsuit was brought forward by NeJame Law on February 17, 2025, as the families seek answers and accountability for the tragic events that unfolded in February 2023.
What Happened That Fateful Day?
The chaos began as 21-year-old Keith Moses unleashed a series of shootings, starting with the murder of 38-year-old Nathacha Augustin. Augustin, a beloved figure in the hip-hop community known by the nickname “Honey D,” had her life cut short under violent circumstances. Eyewitnesses identified Moses as the shooter within the vehicle that day, yet crucial details about his identity remained under wraps.
Just four hours later, local law enforcement cleaned up the crime scene but, troublingly, neglected to inform the surrounding community that the shooter was still on the loose. Questions arose around the effectiveness of the sheriff’s office during this crucial time, especially when Brandi Turner approached a deputy for information after picking up her daughter from school. Unfortunately, the reassurance given to her suggested that “everything is under control.” This false sense of security would have tragic consequences.
A Series of Heartbreaking Events
In a harrowing turn of events, Moses returned to the area later that day, barging into Turner’s home and fatally shooting 9-year-old T’Yonna Major. The young girl’s mother was also injured in the attack. But the horror didn’t stop there; Moses next set his sights on a Spectrum News 13 team that had arrived on the scene. In a shocking escalation, he opened fire again, resulting in the death of reporter Dylan Lyons and injuries to his cameraman.
Criticism and Allegations Against the Sheriff’s Office
The recently filed lawsuit paints a troubling picture of the sheriff’s office’s response that day. The lawsuit alleges that deputies displayed a complete lack of urgency and failed to apprehend Moses despite knowing his whereabouts for nearly three minutes. This lackadaisical approach to a situation that threatened lives has raised significant concerns among the community.
Additionally, deeper issues have emerged, with the lawsuit claiming racial discrimination by the sheriff’s office. Residents of the Pine Hills area reportedly did not receive the same level of protection as those living in the more affluent Windermere neighborhood. Such disparities in law enforcement response drive home the feeling of injustice for the victims and their families.
Seeking Justice and Compensation
The lawsuit is targeting not only the sheriff’s office but also seeks compensation for the damages suffered by Brandi Turner and the estates of both T’Yonna Major and Dylan Lyons. This is not the first time attorney Mark NeJame has taken legal action in relation to this tragic event; another lawsuit was previously filed against Charter Communications regarding the matter of Lyons’s untimely death.
A Community in Mourning
As the legal proceedings begin, the families of the victims are left navigating their grief while searching for answers. The events of February 2023 have left a lasting mark on the Orlando community, highlighting the pressing need for accountability and change within the law enforcement system.
The journey toward justice will undoubtedly be a lengthy one. Yet, for the families affected by these horrific acts, the call for transparency and reform rings louder than ever.
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Additional Resources
- Click Orlando: Orange County Sheriff’s Office Faces Lawsuit
- 29 News: Orange County Sheriff Parts with Deputy Under Investigation
- Daily Progress: Orange County Sheriff Parts Ways with Deputy
- Wikipedia: Shooting Spree
- Fox 35 Orlando: Florida Mall Police Presence
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Lawsuit
- KFDW: Child Saved from Drowning by Quick-Thinking Deputy
- Google Search: Orange County Sheriff
Author: STAFF HERE ORLANDO WRITER
ORLANDO STAFF WRITER The ORLANDO STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREOrlando.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Orlando, Orange County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Orlando International Fringe Theatre Festival, Megacon Orlando, and Central Florida Fair. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Orlando Economic Partnership and Hispanic Chamber of Commerce Metro Orlando, plus leading businesses in leisure and hospitality that power the local economy such as Walt Disney World Resort, AdventHealth, and Universal Orlando. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREJacksonville.com, HEREPetersburg.com, HERETallahassee.com, and HERETampa.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Florida's dynamic landscape.
