On the evening of March 26, 2025, a tragic shooting occurred in Pembroke Park, Florida, claiming the lives of four individuals, including 2-year-old Emery McKenzie, a male child. Authorities responded to reports of gunfire at an apartment complex along Hallandale Beach Boulevard, where they discovered multiple victims suffering from gunshot wounds.
Among the deceased were Emery McKenzie, his twin brother Nova McKenzie, also a 2-year-old male, their 11-year-old brother Xion Solomon, and their mother, 32-year-old Julie Cruz.
Investigators identified the suspect as 34-year-old Stephen McKenzie, the father of Emery and Nova McKenzie. According to law enforcement officials, Stephen McKenzie opened fire on Cruz and her four children inside their residence. Following the attack, he attempted to take his own life but survived. Officers found him critically injured alongside his 8-year-old daughter, Phiinyx Solomon, who also sustained gunshot wounds but remained alive. Both were transported to local hospitals for treatment.
Authorities confirmed that Stephen McKenzie is in custody and facing charges related to the fatal shooting. The investigation revealed that Cruz and McKenzie shared two sons, Emery and Nova McKenzie, while her other children, Xion Solomon and Phiinyx Solomon, had a different father. The motive behind the attack remains under investigation as law enforcement officials continue to gather evidence and interview witnesses. The community has been left in shock by the devastating loss of life, particularly the deaths of the young children.
