A 34-year-old teacher from Hollywood, Florida, was discovered dead on the side of the Florida Turnpike on Christmas Eve.
Broward County Regional Communications received a call about a body found just south of Sunrise Boulevard on the northbound side of the Florida Turnpike on the evening of December 24, 2023, around 7 p.m. The location is approximately 30 miles north of Miami, Florida.
Upon arrival, the Florida Highway Patrol and Davie Fire Rescue personnel found the body of Shakira Shanay Mozie and declared her dead at the scene.
Homicide detectives from the sheriff’s office were called to assist in the investigation. Preliminary findings from the investigation revealed that Mozie’s injuries were consistent with falling out of a moving vehicle.
The ongoing investigation includes questioning Duane Hawkins, Mozie’s boyfriend, who was reported to be the only individual in her white Lexus SUV. Hawkins and Mozie were returning from a Christmas party in West Park, Florida to her residence in Tamarac, Florida at the time of the incident.
Hawkins was arrested on unrelated charges of driving with a suspended license after being questioned. However, he has not been charged in connection with Mozie’s death so far.
Speaking to NBC Miami, Mozie’s family strongly suggested the possibility of foul play. Her great-aunt, Connie Smith-Lindsey, urged a thorough investigation to ensure justice. Her father also expressed doubt about her jumping out of the moving vehicle, noting that Hawkins is likely the only witness to what happened.
Apart from being an elementary school teacher for Discovery Elementary School in Sunrise, Florida, Mozie was also involved in various roles including providing security, offering tutoring, and volunteering as a cheerleading coach. Her dedication to education and her students’ welfare has left a significant impact on the community.
Her great-aunt highlighted the far-reaching impact of her tragic death, which not only affects Mozie’s 10-year-old daughter but also countless students she has mentored over the years.
