Valorie Short, a 30-year-old resident of Green Cove Springs, Florida, tragically lost her life on May 3, 2016. Valorie was a beloved member of her community, known for her vibrant personality and dedication to her family and friends. She worked as a hairstylist at Keeping It Classy Hair and Nail Salon and was a member of the Loyal Order of Moose Palatka Lodge #184. Valorie's life was cut short in a horrific incident that also claimed the lives of her father, Welland "Buddy" Short, and her ex-boyfriend's ex-wife, Erica Green.
The tragic events unfolded when Murray Lancaster, Valorie's ex-boyfriend, abducted her at gunpoint from the salon where she worked. Lancaster then drove Valorie to Magnolia West, where they encountered her father, Buddy Short. In a shocking act of violence, Lancaster shot and killed both Valorie and Buddy. Following this, Lancaster proceeded to the Rosemary Hill Road landfill, where Erica Green, his ex-wife, was working. He shot and killed her as well before fleeing the scene.
The investigation revealed that Lancaster had a history of violent behavior and had previously been arrested for battery and resisting arrest after an altercation with Buddy Short. He had also violated a court-ordered restraining order against one of his former girlfriends. On the day of the murders, Lancaster attempted to visit his children's school to say goodbye but was unable to do so. He ultimately took his own life at his property on Idlewild Avenue, where he was found dead by authorities.
The community of Green Cove Springs was left devastated by the triple murder-suicide. Friends and family of Valorie Short described her as a loving mother to her two young boys, ages 7 and 9, and a cherished friend. The incident prompted a significant response from local law enforcement, including school lockdowns and road closures during the investigation. The tragic loss of Valorie, her father, and Erica Green left a lasting impact on the small, tight-knit community.
