Ocala Man Faces Murder Charge After UK Woman’s Tragic Visit
A man from Ocala, Florida, is facing murder charges related to the tragic death of a woman from the United Kingdom. Sonia Exelby, 32, from Portsmouth, England, traveled to Florida with intentions that led to her untimely demise.
Details of the Case
Exelby arrived at Gainesville Regional Airport on October 10, 2023. Her absence from a scheduled return flight three days later prompted UK authorities to alert the Florida Department of Law Enforcement through INTERPOL, indicating she was missing. Reports indicated that Exelby had mental health issues and a history of suicidal thoughts, which was linked to her planned visit to Florida.
A Connection with Dwain Hall
Investigators identified Dwain Hall, 53, as a key figure in the case. He was connected to transactions made on Exelby’s credit cards after picking her up from the airport and taking her to an Airbnb in Reddick, Florida. Hall stated that he met Exelby through a fetish website two years prior. He claimed she expressed a desire to be killed, and he considered himself a mentor, having violent tendencies himself.
Evidence of Violence
At the Airbnb, Hall admitted to having sexual encounters with Exelby. He recorded a video of her, which investigators later recovered despite Hall deleting it. In the video, Exelby appeared distressed and had visible bruises. She conveyed feelings of worthlessness, stating, “Because I’m an awful person. I’ve crushed everyone who ever loves me.”
On October 11, Exelby communicated with a friend on Discord, expressing regret for being in Hall’s presence. She stated that escape seemed impossible without violent confrontation.
Discovery of Exelby’s Remains
On October 17, 2023, authorities discovered Exelby’s body in a shallow grave in Marion County. Forensic analysis confirmed the remains were hers through fingerprint identification. Evidence further implicated Hall in the murder; a shovel found with Exelby’s DNA was linked to a purchase made by Hall shortly before Exelby’s arrival.
Charges Filed
Autopsy results revealed that Exelby died from four stab wounds. Following the discovery of blood-stained evidence in Ohio related to Hall, he was arrested on charges including first-degree murder, kidnapping, credit card fraud, and unlawful use of a communication device. Investigators determined that Hall planned Exelby’s murder. Messages from Exelby to her friend highlighted her fear and regret regarding her situation.
Seeking Help
For those struggling with thoughts of suicide or related mental health concerns, the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline is available 24/7 by calling or texting 988.
