He survived one of the deadliest attacks in American history, only to later fall victim to an act of senseless street violence.

Roger Borkum, a 64-year-old homeless man and September 11 survivor, died four days after being viciously beaten by three teenagers on the streets of Jacksonville, Florida, according to local authorities, as the New York Post reports.

Borkum, originally from Syosset, New York, had once worked as a consultant in the North Tower of the World Trade Center before losing his job just two months before the 9/11 attacks. On that fateful morning in 2001, he narrowly avoided death by not being in his usual office on the 77th floor. His life, already marked by tragedy, was again upended in 2009 when he lost his wife, Celeste, during a humanitarian mission in Africa.

After years of personal loss, Borkum was living on the streets of Jacksonville when he was targeted in a series of ruthless attacks by three teenagers. According to police, the initial beating took place just before midnight on October 19, 2025, in the city’s downtown area. Witnesses and surveillance video showed the teens kicking and stomping the older man before walking away.

Attackers Returned Multiple Times to Continue Assault

In a disturbing turn of events, the three suspects reportedly returned two more times to continue their assault. Law enforcement officials say they beat Borkum on three separate occasions on the same night. In addition to the beatings, the teens were seen rifling through Borkum’s belongings and rummaging through his backpack before leaving the scene.

The brutal nature of the attack left Borkum with a blood trail along the sidewalk and a pool of blood around his head when first responders arrived. He was rushed to a local hospital, but despite medical efforts, he succumbed to his injuries four days later.

All three individuals were identified and taken into custody within hours of the incident. The suspects include Justin Curry, who was just 12 years old at the time of the attack, 17-year-old Robert Pope, and 19-year-old Marcavion Lacey. Authorities formally indicted the trio for murder on November 20, 2025.

Youthful Age of Offenders Shocks Authorities

Law enforcement expressed alarm at the ages of the suspects, particularly the involvement of someone as young as 12 in a homicide case. “This case is a heartbreaking reminder of how young some offenders have become and how devastating the consequences are for victims, families, and the surrounding community,” the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office stated.

One of the accused reportedly told investigators the attack occurred because Borkum had “dissed” their “dead homies.” Authorities have not disclosed further details about that claim or its implications. Investigators, however, are treating the incident as a targeted act of violence without any known connection to the victim besides the alleged insult.

Officials emphasized the responsibility of families and communities to prevent youth from engaging in violent crimes. “Parents and guardians, get involved in your children’s lives….Take action before it’s too late,” the Sheriff's Office urged in a public statement following the indictment.

Community Expects Justice Following Tragedy

The murder of Roger Borkum has been met with grief and anger throughout Jacksonville. People who had seen Borkum regularly in the area expressed sorrow, remembering him as a quiet man who usually kept to himself. With the suspects now facing murder charges, many are hoping for accountability and justice.

Though Borkum struggled with homelessness, those who knew of his past were struck by the fact that he had once narrowly escaped one of the worst tragedies in American modern history, only to be killed nearly 25 years later in a shocking act of street violence. His life, which had already been shaped by personal and national trauma, came to a violent end far from the towers he once worked in.

City leaders have not yet announced a memorial or tribute to him, though community groups have expressed interest in organizing something in his name. Investigators continue to process evidence, and the suspects await their day in court.

Lessons to Learn

1. Addressing Youth Involvement in Violence: This case illustrates the urgent need for communities to engage with at-risk youth early and consistently. While it's impossible to predict every act of violence, involvement by parents, schools, and social organizations can provide positive guidance and pathways.

2. The Vulnerability of the Homeless: People without housing live in constant risk of victimization. Communities must push for stronger support systems, outreach programs, and safety initiatives to protect those living on the margins.

3. We Must Avoid Victim-Blaming: It’s critically important to remember that no one deserves violence, no matter their status or condition. While we can all learn methods to improve public safety, responsibility for this crime lies solely with the perpetrators.

Why This Story Matters

This incident forces communities to grapple with youth-driven violence and the systemic issues affecting both young people and the homeless.

It shows how tragedy can revisit even those who have already survived horrific events.

Ultimately, it calls for collective accountability and long-term societal solutions.