Jacksonville, December 19, 2025
Roger Borkum, a 64-year-old 9/11 survivor, was brutally beaten to death in downtown Jacksonville, allegedly by three teenagers, prompting a community reevaluation of youth violence. The incident, occurring shortly after a period of homelessness for Borkum, has sparked conversations around societal factors contributing to such violence. Authorities are pursuing justice for Borkum as discussions about youth engagement and community safety unfold.
Tragic Case of Roger Borkum’s Death Raises Serious Concerns in Jacksonville
Three teenagers charged with murder in a shocking downtown attack.
Jacksonville, Florida – In a heartbreaking turn of events, three teenagers have been charged with the murder of Roger Borkum, a 64-year-old man who had a remarkable story of survival during the September 11 attacks. Borkum died after being brutally beaten in downtown Jacksonville on October 19, 2025, a tragic incident that not only ended his life but also left the community grappling with the factors contributing to youth violence.
Borkum, originally from Long Island, was a widower living homeless in Jacksonville at the time of his death. His obituary revealed that he narrowly escaped death in 2001 when he lost his consulting job just two months before the horrific attacks took place at the World Trade Center. This extraordinary twist of fate may have spared his life, but ultimately, he became a victim of violence in his later years.
Details Surrounding the Incident
According to the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office, Borkum was assaulted three times in roughly one hour on the night of October 19. Following the initial two assaults, a witness called emergency services, but when first responders arrived, they found Borkum unharmed and left. Unfortunately, the assailants returned, executing a third brutal assault that left Borkum with severe injuries.
The Arrest and Charges Against the Suspects
Authorities quickly apprehended the suspects—Justin Curry (13), Marcavion Lacey (19), and Robert Pope (17)—within hours of the attack. They were indicted on murder charges less than a month later. This case has drawn significant attention, not just because Borkum was a 9/11 survivor, but also due to the young age of the alleged perpetrators and the circumstances surrounding the attack.
Community Reaction and Concerns
The attack has sparked a robust dialogue around the pressing issue of youth violence in Jacksonville. Many community members are questioning the societal factors that may contribute to such tragic events involving young people. Discussion ranges from exploring educational reforms to evaluating community safety initiatives that could mitigate such violence.
The Investigation Continues
As the investigation unfolds, local authorities are committed to pursuing justice for Roger Borkum and addressing the wider implications of youth violence. Engaging community members in discussions about prevention and intervention strategies could lead to a more resilient Jacksonville, ultimately fostering an environment where both small businesses and individuals feel safe and supported.
Conclusion
The tragic case of Roger Borkum underscores the complexities facing our communities today and brings to light the necessity for ongoing conversations about public safety and youth engagement in Jacksonville. As we collectively reflect on this heartbreaking loss, it’s essential to support local initiatives aimed at promoting well-being and safety for all residents. Engaging in community outreach and strengthening local businesses can be pivotal steps toward creating a more prosperous and secure future for Jacksonville.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Who is Roger Borkum?
Roger Borkum was a 64-year-old man from Long Island, New York, who narrowly escaped death during the September 11 attacks. He was a widower and homeless at the time of his death in Jacksonville, Florida.
What happened to Roger Borkum?
Roger Borkum was fatally beaten in downtown Jacksonville on October 19, 2025. He was assaulted three times between 9:44 p.m. and 10:48 p.m. that night and died four days later from his injuries.
Who are the suspects in this case?
The suspects are Justin Curry (13), Marcavion Lacey (19), and Robert Pope (17). They were arrested shortly after the incident and indicted on murder charges on November 20, 2025.
What is the connection between Roger Borkum and the September 11 attacks?
Roger Borkum was working on the 77th floor of Tower 1 at the World Trade Center during the September 11 attacks. He was laid off just two months before the attacks, which may have spared his life.
What are the charges against the suspects?
The suspects have been charged with murder and other related offenses. One of the suspects reportedly told investigators the attack was triggered because Borkum had “dissed” their “dead homies.”
Key Features of the Case
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Victim | Roger Borkum, 64-year-old man from Long Island, New York, who narrowly escaped death during the September 11 attacks. |
| Incident | Fatally beaten in downtown Jacksonville on October 19, 2025; died four days later from his injuries. |
| Suspects | Justin Curry (13), Marcavion Lacey (19), and Robert Pope (17); arrested shortly after the incident and indicted on murder charges on November 20, 2025. |
| Connection to 9/11 | Borkum was working on the 77th floor of Tower 1 at the World Trade Center during the September 11 attacks; laid off just two months before the attacks. |
| Charges | Suspects charged with murder and other related offenses; one suspect reportedly told investigators the attack was triggered because Borkum had “dissed” their “dead homies.” |
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Author: STAFF HERE JACKSONVILLE WRITER
The JACKSONVILLE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREJacksonville.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Jacksonville, Duval County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Jacksonville Jazz Festival, Riverside Arts Market, and World of Nations Celebration. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Jacksonville Chamber of Commerce and JAXUSA Partnership, plus leading businesses in logistics, healthcare, and entertainment that power the local economy such as CSX Corporation, Baptist Health, and VyStar Credit Union. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREOrlando.com, HEREStPetersburg.com, HERETallahassee.com, and HERETampa.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Florida's dynamic landscape.
