Marlena Turnquest, a 24-year-old resident of Hallandale Beach, Florida, tragically lost her life on September 14, 2016. The incident occurred in the early hours of the morning outside her grandmother's home, where she resided. Marlena was fatally shot in a double shooting that also left another man, Deneil Leroy Merritt, critically injured. The shooting took place just after midnight, and authorities quickly launched an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the incident.
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Hallandale Beach Police Department identified Eddie Sabastain Mosley, a 29-year-old man, as the primary suspect in the case. Mosley, who lived in the same neighborhood as Turnquest, was taken into custody around 2 a.m. on September 15, 2016. He was charged with the murder of Marlena Turnquest and the attempted murder of Deneil Merritt. According to police reports, Mosley had a prior criminal history, including charges of theft, burglary, and drug offenses. Investigators believe that Mosley targeted the victims and that the three individuals knew each other. Evidence suggested that an altercation earlier in the evening led to the fatal shooting.
The arrest of Mosley followed a series of events that included sightings of him in the neighborhood and a dramatic change in his appearance after visiting a local barbershop. Mosley reportedly confessed to the barber about the shooting, which led to the police being notified. A SWAT team was deployed to Mosley's home, but he was not present at the time. He was eventually apprehended at South City Beach Park in Hallandale Beach.
The case against Mosley proceeded with charges of murder, attempted murder, and possession of ammunition by a felon. The arrest brought some relief to Turnquest's family, who expressed their gratitude for the swift action taken by the police. Marlena Turnquest was remembered by her family and friends as a kind and quiet person who brought joy and laughter to those around her. The senseless act of violence that claimed her life left a deep impact on her loved ones and the community.
