Kim Melvin Hill and Tonya Mitchell are the daughters of Major and Claudette Melvin, an elderly couple who were fatally shot in their Fort Lauderdale home on March 22. The sisters expressed their anger and disbelief at the senseless crime, questioning why anyone would harm their parents. Despite their anger, they rely on their Christian faith to cope with the tragedy, believing in God’s plan and timing. The Fort Lauderdale police have issued a nationwide alert for the couple’s stolen car, a red 2014 Ford Focus, and are offering a $5,000 reward for information leading to a suspect’s arrest.
The case has attracted significant attention in South Florida, with the community rallying behind the family in search of justice. Homicide Sgt. Donald Geiger has refrained from sharing specific details about the crime but revealed that there is no evidence suggesting the stolen car has left the area. The perpetrator left behind the victims’ mother’s purse and other valuables, suggesting that robbery may not have been the primary motive. Major Melvin, aged 89, was shot while asleep on the living room couch, followed by his 85-year-old wife Claudette being shot after coming out of the bedroom. The couple’s brother, who has special needs, was in the house during the incident but was unharmed.
Major and Claudette Melvin were beloved members of their community, having been married for 60 years and raising 11 children together. Major was a retired backhoe operator, while Claudette had worked in hospital housekeeping. The couple had 28 grandchildren and were known for their love and kindness towards others. Their daughters remember them as the most loving people they have ever known, with a strong bond that lasted over five decades. The tragic loss has left their family and community mourning the senseless violence that ended their lives prematurely.
Kim and Tonya are determined to find justice for their parents and bring the perpetrator to account for their actions. Describing the killer as a “maggot,” Tonya expressed her anger and frustration over the shocking crime that has devastated their family. The sisters urge anyone with information about the case to come forward, emphasizing the importance of the community’s support in solving the case. While they struggle to make sense of the tragedy, they remain united in seeking closure and ensuring that justice is served for Major and Claudette Melvin.
The investigation into the double homicide remains ongoing, with the Fort Lauderdale police continuing to search for leads and information that could help identify the person responsible for the heinous crime. As the family grapples with their grief and loss, they are thankful for the outpouring of support and solidarity from the community. The daughters of Major and Claudette Melvin are determined to honor their parents’ memory and legacy by advocating for justice and raising awareness about the devastating impact of violence in their community. Their steadfast faith and resilience serve as a beacon of hope in the face of tragedy, inspiring others to stand against senseless acts of violence and protect the sanctity of life for all.
