Emily Marie Gordon, a 25-year-old African American woman from Fort Pierce, Florida, tragically lost her life on October 21, 2020. Emily was found with gunshot wounds at the Madison Cay Apartments in Fort Pierce, alongside Phillip James Simmons Jr., a 26-year-old man from Jennings, Florida. The incident occurred around 12:45 a.m., and both victims were discovered near the parking lot and walkway area of the complex. Despite being transported to HCA Florida Lawnwood Hospital by St.
Lucie County Fire Rescue crews, they succumbed to their injuries.
Emily Gordon was remembered by her family as an outspoken and kind-hearted individual. Her mother, Patricia Prince, and sister, Chiquita Paige, expressed their grief and urged anyone with information about the incident to come forward. Emily was a lifelong resident of Fort Pierce, where she graduated from the local high school and worked as a computer technician. She was known for her love of music, particularly gospel, and her efforts to get along with everyone.
The investigation into the murders led to the arrest of Tyriek Jacari Ganious, a 22-year-old man from Fort Pierce. Ganious was initially arrested on October 26, 2020, for an unrelated gun charge. He was later charged with the murders of Emily Gordon and Phillip Simmons on December 10, 2021. Ganious was found guilty of two counts of first-degree murder with a firearm and two counts of possession of a firearm or ammunition by a convicted felon. On September 15, 2023, he was sentenced to two consecutive life sentences without the possibility of parole, along with an additional 30 years for his weapons offenses.
The Fort Pierce Police Department, led by Detective Noah Clark, conducted a thorough investigation, which included following up on leads and ensuring the suspect was already in custody. The police chief, Diane Hobley-Burney, praised the dedication of the officers involved in the case and expressed her condolences to the families of the victims. The conviction of Ganious provided some sense of closure to Emily Gordon's family, who had been frustrated at times during the investigation.
Emily's death was a significant loss to her family and community. Her mother, Patricia Prince, continues to carry her memory in her heart, and her sister, Chiquita Paige, emphasized the importance of resolving conflicts through communication rather than violence. The tragic incident highlighted the impact of gun violence and the need for justice for the victims and their families.
