“A Quiet Night Turned Deadly: The Killing of Gwen Floyd”.5635
PINE HILLS, Fla. — On the night of November 28, 2025, a quiet neighborhood in Pine Hills became the backdrop for a tragedy that has left family, friends, and the wider community reeling. DeGwendolyn “Gwen” Floyd, a 45-year-old woman known for her warmth and humor, was found fatally stabbed in her own home — a crime authorities say was premeditated and carried out by a man known to her family.
According to Orange County deputies, officers responded to the 2800 block of Rockingham Circle at around 11 p.m., following a report of a stabbing. When they arrived, Floyd was found critically injured and rushed to a nearby hospital. Despite the emergency care she received, she was pronounced dead shortly after arrival.
A Suspect Identified
Investigators quickly identified 33-year-old Tremon Delo Jones as the suspect in the fatal attack. Surveillance video and phone records showed that Jones had communicated with Floyd and arrived at her residence just prior to the stabbing. Orange County deputies located Jones at a Sanford outreach mission on Friday, where he was taken into custody without incident.
According to the arrest affidavit, Jones — known to Floyd and her family as “Savage” — entered her home after Floyd opened the door. Once inside, he allegedly attacked her with an “unknown object,” repeatedly stabbing her in the face and neck. Deputies described the assault as premeditated, noting that Jones coordinated the meeting through text messages. At the time of the attack, he was reportedly wearing a hooded sweatshirt, a surgical mask, and carried a backpack — a combination that concealed his identity and suggested careful planning.
Evidence, including a tablet linked to Jones, was recovered from the scene, further tying him to the crime.
A History of Threats
This was not the first time Jones had been involved in threatening behavior toward Floyd. Records show that on March 9, 2024, he attempted to unlawfully enter her bedroom, an alarming incident that highlighted a pattern of intrusion and danger. Despite this history, the fatal attack came months later, catching the community off guard.
Rashonda Floyd, Gwen’s sister, struggled to comprehend the motive behind the attack. “I don’t think he (Jones) will ever say why he did it — and his ‘why’ will never be good enough for me,” she said.
She emphasized that Jones was not a stranger. “He was an acquaintance of my sister’s. They weren’t in a relationship. They would see each other off and on,” she explained, her voice trembling. “I don’t know what that conversation was, or what he could have said to her to make her open enough to let him come over.”
The Community Reacts
The Pine Hills neighborhood, usually quiet in the evenings, has been left shaken. Residents described feeling both anger and sorrow, struggling to reconcile the safety of familiar streets with the horror of the crime. For many, the fact that the attack was carried out by someone known to Floyd adds an additional layer of betrayal and disbelief.
Local authorities commended the rapid work of deputies and detectives in identifying and apprehending Jones within hours of the incident. “The swift action of law enforcement prevented any further harm,” said one official. “While nothing can undo the tragedy, the coordinated efforts of our officers ensured that the suspect was apprehended quickly and safely.”
Remembering Gwen Floyd
Beyond the details of the crime, friends and family are focusing on remembering Gwen Floyd for the life she lived, not the violence that ended it. Those who knew her describe her as vibrant, full of laughter, and generous in spirit.
“She was an amazing person, and I know she is resting peacefully,” Rashonda said, reflecting on her sister’s legacy. Despite the senseless loss, she emphasized that Gwen’s spirit and joy could not be extinguished. “He could never take away her spirit. I have a video of her laugh, so I can still listen to it.”
Neighbors echoed these sentiments, recalling moments of kindness and warmth that Gwen brought to the community. Many have left flowers and notes at the scene, memorializing her memory and showing solidarity with her family.
Legal Proceedings and Charges
Jones has been charged with first-degree murder and is being held without bond at the Orange County Jail. Authorities indicate that the case will be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law, reflecting the premeditated and violent nature of the crime.
The investigation remains active as deputies continue to review evidence, interview witnesses, and gather additional information about the events leading up to the murder. While Jones is in custody, questions remain about the circumstances that allowed this attack to occur and the sequence of interactions between him and Floyd in the hours before her death.
A Family in Mourning
For the Floyd family, the loss is both immediate and overwhelming. Friends have stepped in to provide emotional support, offering meals, prayers, and a shoulder to lean on. Yet even amidst this care, the family must navigate the long and painful process of grieving a loved one who was taken in such a violent and senseless manner.
“Gwen’s life, though cut short, will not be forgotten,” said a family friend. “Her laughter, her kindness, her presence in the lives of those she loved — that endures.”
A Community on Edge
This tragedy serves as a stark reminder of the vulnerability that exists in our own neighborhoods, and the profound impact that violent crime can have on families and communities alike. Residents are urged to remain vigilant and to support each other as the Floyd family navigates their grief.
Chief Michael McLean of the Elmhurst Police Department expressed the department’s ongoing commitment: “We extend our deepest condolences to the family and friends grieving Gwen’s loss. Our officers, detectives, and evidence technicians worked tirelessly to ensure that justice could be pursued swiftly and that the suspect was apprehended without incident. The department will continue to provide updates as the investigation proceeds.”
A Life Remembered
DeGwendolyn “Gwen” Floyd’s life, though tragically short, left an indelible mark on her family, friends, and the community of Pine Hills. Her laughter, generosity, and spirit continue to resonate with all who knew her, even as they confront the trauma of her violent death.
As the community mourns and the legal process unfolds, those closest to Gwen hold on to the memories of her warmth and joy, ensuring that she is remembered not for the violence of her final moments, but for the life she lived and the love she shared.
A Miracle Baby Again Fighting for Her Life: Pray for Hailee.5696
In life, there are moments when the strength and resilience of one person can inspire countless others. Rachel is one of those people. Known for her unwavering faith and her commitment to lifting others up in their times of need, Rachel has always been the person people turn to for support. But now, as she watches her 6-year-old daughter Hailee fight for her life in a hospital room, Rachel finds herself in need of that same love and strength she’s so often given to others.
Hailee’s journey has never been an easy one. Born extremely premature, she spent 145 days in the NICU fighting for survival, defying the odds each day. Her resilience, her will to live, and the love of her mother and family were the only things that got her through those dark, uncertain months. Now, Hailee is once again in a battle for her life, and her mother, who has always believed, is asking for that same army of prayer to surround her little girl.
A Miracle Child
Hailee’s story began long before this recent hospital stay. Born months ahead of schedule, Hailee entered the world as a tiny, fragile baby who had to fight for each breath. She was born prematurely, weighing just over a pound, and immediately faced life-threatening challenges. The doctors weren’t sure if she would survive, but Hailee proved to be a fighter. With every milestone she reached, from taking her first breath to eventually leaving the NICU, Hailee showed just how strong she was, earning the title of “miracle child” in the process.
Rachel never stopped believing in her daughter’s strength. Each day, she poured her love into Hailee, giving her everything she needed to fight and to grow. Even though the road was long and filled with uncertainty, Rachel never gave up. She stood by Hailee’s side through every procedure, every setback, and every moment of triumph. Rachel’s faith in Hailee was unshakable, and it was her belief that got them both through the toughest times.
Hailee’s life, however, hasn’t been free of struggles. The challenges of being born prematurely have left lasting effects on her health, but none of them could diminish the joy and light she brought to her family. Her laughter, her spirit, and her determination made her an incredible source of inspiration, not just for Rachel but for everyone who knew her.
The Latest Battle
As November came to an end, Rachel’s world shifted once again. On November 25, Hailee was admitted to intensive care after suffering multiple seizures. It was a terrifying moment for Rachel, who had already been through so much with her daughter. The seizures were followed by a pulmonary hypertension crisis, and Hailee’s condition worsened rapidly. She was intubated to help her breathe, but this was just the beginning of the long road ahead.
The days that followed were filled with fear and uncertainty as Hailee fought against multiple illnesses, including rhinovirus, pneumonia, and MRSA. These complications piled on top of Hailee’s already fragile health, and the medical team did everything they could to stabilize her. But despite their best efforts, Hailee’s condition continued to deteriorate.
For Rachel, this was the ultimate test of her strength and faith. She had been through so much already, but nothing could have prepared her for the sight of her little girl so desperately struggling to breathe. Hailee’s oxygen levels dropped so low that she required manual ventilation, and Rachel watched as her daughter was bagged to breathe again and again, each moment a reminder of how tenuous life could be.
But through it all, Rachel never lost hope. She kept her faith strong and prayed for Hailee’s recovery. She asked for prayers from everyone who would listen, reaching out to friends, family, and even strangers, knowing that the power of community support and prayer could make all the difference.
Spending the Holidays in the Hospital
As Hailee’s health continued to decline, the holiday season brought additional heartbreak. Instead of celebrating Thanksgiving at home with family, Rachel and Hailee spent the holiday in the hospital. It was a difficult pill to swallow, but Rachel tried to keep Hailee’s spirits up, reminding her that they were together, and that was what mattered most.
The challenges didn’t end with Thanksgiving. Hailee’s 6th birthday, a milestone that should have been filled with joy and celebration, was spent in a hospital bed. Hailee, who had always been the center of her family’s world, couldn’t have the birthday party she deserved. But despite the circumstances, Rachel did her best to make the day special, surrounding Hailee with love and comfort. The simple act of holding Hailee’s hand and sharing her love was a gift that would stay with them both, no matter the challenges they faced.
And now, as Christmas approaches, it’s looking like Hailee will still be in the hospital. Rachel’s heart aches as she imagines spending another holiday in the sterile, cold environment of a hospital room instead of at home with family. But even in the midst of these trials, Rachel continues to hold on to hope. She knows that with faith, prayer, and the strength of her daughter, anything is possible.
The Power of Prayer and Community
One of the most powerful sources of strength for Rachel and Hailee during this time has been the outpouring of support from their community. Rachel has always been someone who lifts others up, whether through her faith, her kindness, or her tireless work to help those in need. Now, as she watches her daughter fight for her life, Rachel is asking for that same love and support to be poured back into them.
The power of prayer is not something Rachel takes lightly. She has seen firsthand how the love and support of others can make all the difference during difficult times. The prayers of friends, family, and even strangers have given her the strength to keep going, to continue fighting alongside her daughter.
Rachel’s request for prayer is not just for Hailee’s health but for the strength to endure this battle. “I’m scared,” Rachel said in a recent message. “But I know I can’t do this alone. Hailee can’t do this alone. We need the strength of everyone who loves us, and we need the power of prayer to help us get through this.”
The Unbreakable Bond Between Mother and Daughter
Through all the pain, fear, and uncertainty, the bond between Rachel and Hailee remains unbreakable. As Hailee continues to fight for her life, Rachel remains by her side, offering comfort, love, and encouragement. She speaks to Hailee as if nothing has changed, as if her daughter is still that bright, happy little girl who loves to laugh and dream.
Rachel’s love for Hailee is boundless, and it is that love that fuels her determination to keep fighting, no matter what. She has always believed in Hailee’s strength, and even in the darkest moments, she refuses to give up. Her faith, her love for her daughter, and the support of the community are what keep her going.
Hailee, for her part, continues to show the same strength and courage she has displayed throughout her young life. Even in the face of unimaginable challenges, she fights with everything she has, just as she did when she was born. Her resilience is a testament to the love and care she has received from her mother and everyone who has supported her along the way.
A Prayer for Hailee’s Healing
As Hailee continues to fight for her life, Rachel’s message remains clear: she is asking for an army of prayer to surround her daughter. Hailee’s journey is far from over, and Rachel is determined to keep fighting, with the hope that one day, her daughter will walk out of that hospital room and into a brighter future.
“Please, keep praying for Hailee,” Rachel wrote in her most recent update. “She’s a fighter, and I know that with all the love and prayers surrounding her, she can do this. We can do this.”
For Rachel, this journey is not just about physical healing—it’s about the strength of a mother’s love and the power of community. The prayers, the love, and the support of everyone who has rallied around Hailee will be the fuel that keeps them both going, and it’s that hope that will carry them through the darkest days.
As Christmas draws near, Rachel remains hopeful that the miracle they’ve all been waiting for will come—that Hailee will overcome the odds and emerge stronger than ever. Until then, the family’s fight continues, and with each prayer, they grow stronger, united in their love for Hailee and their determination to see her through this battle.
