In a tragic incident in Port St. Lucie, Florida, a highly respected teacher from Manatee Academy K-8 School lost her life at the hands of her estranged husband, who later committed suicide. Jamie Felix, 45, a recipient of the “Teacher of the Year” award, was fatally shot by her husband, Ray Felix, 60, in a business parking lot, while their two children, aged 10 and 17, witnessed the horrifying event.
The couple was in the middle of a bitter divorce, which was reportedly marred by several instances of domestic violence. The fatal shooting occurred on a Friday evening when Ray, armed and in disguise, forced Jamie and their children into his rented vehicle. He subsequently sent an unsettling email to Jamie’s colleagues, alleging that she had fabricated the domestic violence incidents.
Despite Jamie’s colleagues alerting the police about the disturbing email, the authorities were unable to prevent the tragic event. Ray manipulated his 17-year-old son into trailing Jamie’s SUV as they headed south towards West Palm Beach. Jamie was reportedly held at gunpoint while driving, with their younger son in the backseat. The family eventually halted in a parking lot near a hotel for reasons yet to be disclosed, where Ray shot his wife multiple times, causing fatal injuries.
The children witnessed their mother’s brutal murder and their father’s subsequent escape in the rented car. The West Palm Beach police received several 911 calls around 7:30 p.m. Jamie was declared dead at the scene, while Ray was located by the police not far from the scene after he returned the rented vehicle. As the police approached him, Ray ended his own life.
Jamie Felix’s untimely death has left the community in shock. Family, friends, colleagues, and students have taken to social media and her obituary to express their grief and share heartfelt tributes. Jamie, a University of Michigan sports enthusiast and basketball coach, is remembered as a compassionate and dedicated teacher who brought happiness to those around her.
The authorities are still investigating the circumstances leading up to the incident. Meanwhile, the community is trying to come to terms with the loss of a cherished educator.