Florida Man Arrested for Alleged Murder of UK Woman
A tragic case has emerged involving a Florida man, Dwain Hall, who is set to stand trial for first-degree murder and kidnapping charges. He allegedly killed Sonia Exelby, a young woman from Portsmouth, England, who traveled to the US, reportedly agreeing with Hall to be sexually abused, tortured, and murdered.
Missing Person Report
Sonia Exelby’s family reported her missing in October 2025 when she failed to return from the United States. Communication to a friend indicated she regretted her decision and wished to cancel the deal with Hall. Tragically, her body was discovered in a shallow grave in Ocala, Florida, with evidence showing she had been stabbed.
Online Connection and Deadly Plan
Court records reveal that Hall and Exelby met on a fetish website in 2023. They discussed dark themes, including bondage and suicide, with Exelby expressing her wish to be killed. Their online conversations suggested a transaction in which Exelby would help Hall with his IRS debt in exchange for fulfilling her deadly aspirations.
Despite being previously stopped by UK authorities from traveling to meet people who intended to harm her, she ultimately booked a flight to Florida. Investigators found evidence of her intentions on her computer, indicating her plans to meet Hall and face the alleged abuse and murder.
Final Days and Evidence Gathering
Exelby arrived in Gainesville, Florida, on October 10, 2025, planning to return to the UK on October 13. She stayed in an Airbnb in Reddick, Florida, which she reserved herself. Hall allegedly purchased various suspicious items, including 50 feet of rope and a shovel, as evidenced by Walmart receipts and surveillance footage.
Before her disappearance, Exelby sent distraught messages to a friend, describing the fear and regret she felt. Her messages conveyed that Hall had taken her phone and locked her in due to distrust. She mentioned making videos and writing letters under Hall’s coercion.
Discovery and Arrest
After Exelby did not return for her flight, and with bank charges on her debit card pointing to Hall, investigators were led to him. Law enforcement discovered her body buried in a grave with stab wounds. Hall was apprehended while driving on Interstate 75.
Investigators found a package from Hall containing personal items and a knife linked to Exelby by blood samples. Initially, Hall denied knowing Exelby but later admitted to filming her under distress.
A video recovered from Hall showed Exelby bruised and upset, being questioned by Hall. She admitted to wanting to be harmed as she saw herself negatively, under Hall’s manipulation.
Ongoing Legal Proceedings
Dwain Hall remains in custody at the Marion County Jail, facing six felony charges. The upcoming trial may include a death penalty consideration. His legal representative has not responded to requests for comment.