A Family’s Final Day: Tragedy Strikes Panama City Beach Hotel
In a devastating turn of events, a family of five was found dead in their hotel rooms in Panama City Beach, Florida. The incident occurred at the Sunnyside Apartments, a popular beachfront accommodation, on the evening of March 25, 2025. Authorities responded to the scene around 5:15 p.m. after receiving reports of a shooting.
Among the victims were Ashlee Thomas, 30, and Hailey Knowles, 24. Both women were pronounced dead at the scene. They were described by family members as inseparable, always together, and full of life. Their mothers were in a relationship, and Thomas and Knowles grew up like sisters, sharing rooms and dreams. According to Dawn Thomas, Ashlee’s mother, “They never turned down a beach day… They liked to make people laugh.”
The tragedy has left the community in shock and mourning. Jordan Horn, Knowles’ brother, expressed his grief, stating, “They were best friends, (and) they were sisters… Hopefully, this can be a wake-up call for all of their friends and other girls in any part of the world that domestic violence is not a joke.”
The suspect in the shooting, Milan McKelvey, 26, was arrested in Montgomery County, Alabama, and is currently being held at the Bay County jail. He faces charges related to the deaths of Thomas and Knowles. Investigations are ongoing as authorities work to understand the motive behind this tragic event.
In the wake of the tragedy, a GoFundMe campaign has been set up to support Ashlee Thomas’ family. As of the latest update, it has raised over $6,000 to assist with funeral expenses and other related costs. The funeral for Ashlee Thomas is scheduled for April 27, 2025.
This heartbreaking incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of addressing domestic violence and ensuring the safety of individuals in all communities. The loss of Ashlee Thomas and Hailey Knowles has left a void in the hearts of their families and the Panama City Beach community.
