Florida Man Charged in Murder of British Visitor in Marion County

Marion County prosecutors announced charges on November 20 2025 accusing 53 year old Dwain Hall of kidnapping and first degree murder in the death of Sonia Exelby, a woman from Portsmouth in the United Kingdom whose remains were discovered in Marion Oaks in October after she failed to board a return flight. The Florida Department of Law Enforcement and Marion County investigators said the arrest followed an affidavit and evidence that tied Hall to the victim in both digital and physical records.

Investigators outlined a timeline in local reporting that placed activity between October 10 and October 14 which included purchases and travel linked to Hall and Exelby. Officials said surveillance footage and bank records placed Hall with Exelby during her trip to Florida. The affidavit and investigative materials reportedly cited purchases of rope a shovel and other items that traced back to Hall. Authorities also described recorded messages and video showing Exelby injured and expressing doubt about her situation and said the alleged murder weapon was recovered with the victim s blood present. A medical examiner reportedly found sharp force injuries consistent with homicide.

Hall appeared in court and pleaded not guilty. He was held without bond pending further proceedings. The involvement of the Florida Department of Law Enforcement alongside Marion County detectives reflects the cross jurisdictional attention the case has drawn, both because the victim traveled from abroad and because the circumstances include online contacts that preceded the trip.

The case has attracted international attention as it raises questions about online interactions that lead to in person meetings and potential violence. For hobbyists and community investigators who follow true crime closely the mix of digital evidence and physical forensic links offers a clear example of how modern investigations rely on bank records surveillance footage and recovered materials to construct timelines and tie suspects to victims.

Enthusiasts should note the importance of responsible engagement with active cases. While the available public reporting provides leads and a chronology that is of genuine investigative interest the matter remains before the courts and active investigative work is ongoing. Accurate tracking of official filings and statements from prosecuting agencies will be important for those following the case.

As the legal process moves forward the community will be watching for arraignment developments formal charges and any additional forensic or digital evidence that prosecutors introduce. The case is a reminder of the risks tied to online encounters and the role of coordinated investigative work in resolving serious crimes.