JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – On April 1, 2023, 16-year-old Makye Vogel went to a birthday party at an apartment complex on Jacksonville’s Southside.
He never came back home.
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Vogel, who was just days away from turning 17, was shot and killed after stepping outside to answer a phone call.
To this day, the person responsible for his murder has not been arrested.
That’s why Project: Cold Case, a Jacksonville-based organization, is bringing awareness to Vogel’s case, hoping to bring justice to his family while honoring his legacy.
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News4JAX spoke with Vogel’s mother two days after his murder, and said he dreamed of playing professional basketball but also planned to pursue becoming a chiropractor as a backup plan.
His mom, Heather, remembers one special night when she dragged Kye and his siblings to Disney on Ice.
“Watching Kye, Jai, and their friend Jerry was so funny—I think they had more fun than Amir! Aniessa and I couldn’t stop laughing. It was such an amazing night, one I’ll never forget,” she said.
Apart from basketball, Vogel also loved chicken curry, Hot Cheetos, lemonade, his Oma’s mac and cheese, and homemade cookies.
More than two years after his murder, his loved ones — and the whole community — are still seeking answers.
Vogel would’ve turned 17 on April 11, 2023 — 10 days after his murder. His family and friends gathered for a candlelight vigil. Many wore red and black, his favorite colors.
“I’m not going to let him be forgotten. He will not be forgotten,” Heather said.
Anyone with information concerning Makye Vogel’s unsolved homicide is asked to call the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office at 904-630-0500. To remain anonymous and possibly be eligible for a reward, call First Coast Crime Stoppers at (866) 845-8477.