The tragic loss of Monica Islam, a 44-year-old woman from Eustis who was found dead in Mount Dora, has profoundly impacted the local community. Islam, who was a cashier at a local convenience store, was last seen last Friday at a Shell gas station and was later reported missing by her daughter. Her body was discovered shortly thereafter in an area near Scenic Hills Drive and Wolf Branch Road.
Described as the "heart of the community" by those who knew her, Islam was remembered at a vigil held in her honor. Alisha Curtin, one of the vigil organizers and a frequent customer, spoke about Islam's kindness, telling WFTV, "She was amazing. Even if she was just in the store and she was helping her daughter, she was super kind, super sweet." Despite the heavy loss, the community rallied behind Rimi, Monica Islam's daughter, who is grappling with her mother's untimely death while seeking justice.
Rimi, whose face was not shown due to concerns for her safety, voiced her determination to see her mother’s killer brought to justice, according to interviews. "I do want my mom to get the justice. I know I'll get it. I know. Cause I trust the police and people working on this," Rimi told WFTV. As of the vigil date, no arrests had been made, and the Lake County Sheriff's Office had not identified any persons of interest.
A week following the tragedy, Rimi and the community gathered at the gas station where Islam worked and was last seen alive. Amid the candles and prayers, there were fervent calls for justice. "I do want my Mom to get the justice," Rimi said during the vigil, in a statement echoed by Curtin, who stated, "She needs justice for her mom," as reported by WESH.
While the investigation into Islam's murder continues, the Lake County officials have ruled the cause of death as a gunshot wound, and the manner of death as a homicide. Anyone with information is urged to contact Crimeline at 1-800-423-TIPS to assist with the ongoing investigation.
