Amanda Kathryn Cloaninger-Colley, a 36-year-old woman from Saint Augustine, Florida, tragically lost her life on August 27, 2015. Amanda, who was born on June 3, 1979, in Orlando, Florida, was a graduate of Charlton County High School and Valdosta State University. She was a member of the Zeta Tau Alpha Sorority and was known for her vibrant personality and dedication to her family and friends.
On the morning of her death, Amanda was at her home in the MuraBella community with her
friends Lindy Dobbins, Rachel Hendricks, and her boyfriend, Lamar Douberly. They were there to support her after her estranged husband, James Terry Colley Jr., had ransacked her home the previous night. James Colley, who was under a domestic violence injunction at the time, suspected Amanda of dating another man and was desperate to reconcile with her. Just hours before the tragic event, he had appeared in court for violating the domestic violence injunction.
James Colley returned to Amanda's home armed and with a clear intent to harm. He began shooting from outside the house, ultimately killing Amanda and her friend Lindy Dobbins. Amanda was found hiding in a bathroom, while Lindy was discovered behind a chest in a closet. Both women were shot multiple times as they pleaded for their lives. Rachel Hendricks and Lamar Douberly managed to escape the attack, though they were also targeted.
Following the murders, James Colley was arrested and charged with multiple offenses, including first-degree premeditated murder, attempted murder, burglary, and aggravated stalking. In July 2018, he was found guilty of all charges. The court proceedings revealed the premeditated nature of his actions, including his calm demeanor during a court hearing and his deliberate approach to the crime scene. Despite his defense's argument that he was impaired by the sleep drug Ambien, the court upheld his convictions.
In November 2018, James Colley was sentenced to death for the murders of Amanda Colley and Lindy Dobbins. The Florida Supreme Court later upheld his death sentences, rejecting his appeals. The case highlighted the severe consequences of domestic violence and the tragic loss of two lives due to a senseless act of violence. Amanda Colley's death left a profound impact on her family, friends, and the community, who continue to honor her memory.
