
By Kristin Smith First Coast News
KINGS BAY, GA -- The First Coast is honoring the life of a hero. Petty Officer 2nd Class Laquita James died while supporting Operation Enduring Freedom.
She lived in Orange Park. The Navy says it appears to be a natural death.
Now family and friends have questions, not just because James died at such a young age, but because she always seemed so healthy.
And the Navy tells us they're trying to get some answers for the family as quickly as possible.
The moment Laquita Pate James friends found out she'd died of apparently natural causes, they felt something was wrong. Wayne Anderson knew her for years.
"I've seen Miss James do her P.T. and all of that. She was a picture of health to me," said Anderson.
James was serving her country on the U.S.S. Bataan.
"She was a good girl. I really miss her already," said Anderson.
The military says they don't believe foul play was involved him James' death. But they say they will be doing an autopsy as part of a complete investigation.
"I'm shocked. It makes me want to take another look at my own life," said Anderson.
Anderson says James sent his sister, who was her best friend, a text message just before she died.
Now they're trying to gather whatever information they can to put the pieces together on their own.
James leaves behind two sons.
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Created: 2/15/2007 5:50:22 PM 


