Lindy Morgan Dobbins, a 39-year-old white female, tragically lost her life on August 27, 2015, in Saint Augustine, Florida. Born and raised near Buffalo, New York, Lindy was known for her outgoing and community-minded nature. She was a devoted wife and mother, working as a team leader at the Crocs Store at the St. Augustine Outlet Mall. Her sudden death left a profound impact on her family, friends, and the community.
The circumstances surrounding Lindy Dobbins' death were harrowing.
On the morning of August 27, 2015, Lindy was at the home of her friend Amanda Colley in the Murabella community of St. Johns County. Amanda Colley, who was estranged from her husband, James Terry Colley Jr., had been dealing with his increasingly erratic and violent behavior. James Colley had violated a domestic violence injunction and had appeared in court just hours before the tragic incident.
Following the court appearance, James Colley returned to Amanda's home, armed and intent on violence. He fatally shot Amanda Colley and Lindy Dobbins, who was hiding behind a chest in a closet. The attack was brutal, with both women pleading for their lives before being shot multiple times. Two other individuals, Rachel Hendricks and Lamar Douberly, were also present and were shot but survived the attack.
James Terry Colley Jr. 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 the murders of Amanda Colley and Lindy Dobbins, as well as the attempted murders of Rachel Hendricks and Lamar Douberly. The jury's verdict led to Colley's sentencing to death in November 2018. His appeal to the Florida Supreme Court was rejected, and his death sentences were upheld.
The case of Lindy Dobbins' murder highlights the devastating consequences of domestic violence and the importance of legal protections for those at risk. The community of St. Augustine continues to remember Lindy and Amanda through memorials and dedications, honoring their lives and the impact they had on those around them.
