A newly released autopsy report has provided harrowing details about the death of Sonia Exelby, a 32-year-old British woman whose body was discovered in a Florida woodland last year. The findings shed light on a case that involves a fetish website, premeditated travel, and a first-degree murder charge.
Tragic Journey and Discovery
Sonia Exelby, from Portsmouth, Hampshire, flew to the United States on October 10, 2025. According to investigators, evidence on her computer indicated she was suicidal and had travelled with the intention of being sexually abused, tortured, and potentially murdered. She failed to board her return flight to the UK on October 3, prompting concern.
Her remains were found days later in a shallow grave in a wooded area of Marion Oaks, Florida. Police subsequently arrested Dwain Hall on charges of first-degree murder and kidnapping.
Autopsy Findings and Cause of Death
The report from the Marion County Medical Examiner, finalised on November 4, 2025, rules Sonia Exelby's death a homicide. It states she died from multiple stab wounds to her torso.
The autopsy reveals she was stabbed four times, with wounds measuring between four to seven inches deep. The injuries penetrated her aorta, oesophagus, stomach, spleen, pancreas, and left kidney. The report also noted a "dried, red-orange, 'V'-shaped abrasion" on her body.
Evidence and Legal Proceedings
A toxicology report found a likely presence of cannabinoids in Sonia's system, along with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.064%. At this level, according to the Cleveland Clinic, a person can experience reduced inhibition, lower alertness, and impaired judgement.
Police linked Hall to the crime after he allegedly attempted to use Sonia Exelby's credit cards. Licence plate readers placed his vehicle at Gainesville airport around the time she arrived. During police interviews, Hall allegedly admitted that he and Sonia had "discussed bondage, suicide and her desire to have someone kill her."
Hall's attorney, Julia Williamson, filed a written plea of not guilty. She stated the plea would stand until they receive Discovery—the evidence the prosecution has gathered. Hall is expected in court in February 2026. Williamson offered condolences to Sonia Exelby's family, describing the loss as painful for all involved.
Sonia's family has said she had been struggling with her mental health prior to her fateful trip to Florida. The case continues to develop as the legal process moves forward.
