A British woman who travelled to Florida to meet a man she connected with on a fetish website was found stabbed to death and buried in a shallow grave, an autopsy has confirmed.
The Journey and Discovery of a Body
Sonia Exelby, a 32-year-old woman from Portsmouth, Hampshire, arrived in the US state of Florida on October 10, 2025. Police allege she was collected from the airport by Dwain Hall, 53, and taken to an Airbnb rental property in Reddick, which is located in Marion County.
Just one week later, on October 17, her body was discovered in a woodland area within the same county. She had been placed in a shallow grave. An initial post-mortem examination established that she had suffered four stab wounds.
Autopsy Reveals Brutal Injuries
The detailed findings from the Marion County Medical Examiner's office have now been released. The report confirms Sonia Exelby was stabbed four times, with wounds measuring between four and seven inches deep.
The fatal injuries penetrated her torso, causing damage to critical organs including her aorta, oesophagus, stomach, spleen, pancreas, and left kidney. The official cause of death was determined to be these stab wounds, and the manner of death is ruled a homicide.
The autopsy also noted the presence of a "dried, red-orange 'V'-shaped abrasion" on her body. Furthermore, a toxicology screen indicated the likely presence of cannabinoids—compounds found in cannabis—in her system.
Arrest, Charges, and Alleged Online Discussions
Following the discovery, Dwain Hall was arrested and charged with first-degree murder and kidnapping. According to police allegations, Hall and Exelby had met on a fetish-themed website.
Investigators claim that their online discussions involved themes of abuse and possibly killing her. It has been reported that Sonia Exelby had struggled with her mental health.
Julia Williamson, the attorney representing Hall, previously informed the Mirror that her client intends to enter a not guilty plea. Hall is next expected to appear in court in February.
This tragic case highlights the extreme dangers that can arise from meetings arranged through niche online platforms, particularly when combined with international travel and discussions involving violence.
