An Ohio teenager accused of strangling his ex-girlfriend during a senior trip to Myrtle Beach reportedly locked himself in a room with her body for hours before emerging with a self-inflicted chest wound, according to the victim's best friend. Blake Linkous, 18, allegedly choked Natalie Martin, also 18, inside a vacation rental on June 6, where several friends were also staying.
According to Brooklyn Ferrell, Martin's best friend, Linkous appeared around 9 a.m. with a stab wound to his chest, prompting frantic inquiries about Martin's whereabouts. Two friends subsequently discovered Martin's lifeless body in the bedroom and attempted CPR, but it was too late.
Ferrell, who wasn't on the trip, has been communicating with Martin's mother and the other teenagers present. She and Martin had been close friends since childhood and recently graduated from Philo High School in Duncan Falls, Ohio.
The day before the tragedy, the couple reportedly argued about Martin texting another man, but the issue seemed resolved. They went to a club, but Martin returned to the rental early with Linkous due to feeling unwell. Two friends returned later and entered through the back as the front door was unanswered. One heard thuds but found nothing amiss. The bedroom door, where Linkous and Martin were, was locked.
Hours later, Linkous emerged from the room, bleeding and exclaiming that Martin wouldn't wake up. He had reportedly been alone with her body for hours. Linkous and Martin had dated for three years before breaking up in February following an alleged assault by Linkous.
Despite Linkous' known temper, Ferrell expressed disbelief at his alleged actions. The incident has devastated the small Ohio town. Martin, who worked at a local daycare, aspired to a career in child education. She was remembered as a unique individual with a love for hunting, fishing, and caring for children and animals.
A GoFundMe campaign for Martin's family has raised substantial funds. Linkous is currently held without bond on a murder charge. The high school principal described Martin as well-liked and remembered her sweet and humorous nature.
