A Florida resident is in jail awaiting trial after allegedly murdering a young woman from the United Kingdom. According to court records, she had traveled to the U.S. to engage in a plan for her to be “sexually abused, tortured, and murdered.”
Details of the Crime
Sonia Exelby, from Portsmouth, England, was reported missing in October 2025 after failing to return from a visit to the United States. Text messages to a friend suggest that she regretted her decision and attempted to cancel the alleged agreement with Dwain Hall, who she paid to commit the crime.
Exelby was found buried in a shallow grave in Ocala, Florida, with stab wounds. Dwain Hall, 54, now faces charges of premeditated first-degree murder and kidnapping, with his trial set for November 5 in Marion County.
Background and Meetings
In 2023, Hall and Exelby connected on a website discussing “bondage, suicide” and her wish to be killed. Hall, identifying as a sadist, began a relationship he termed “mentoring” Exelby.
Investigators cited Hall’s fascination with Anubis, an Egyptian god associated with the underworld. Financial records indicate that Exelby offered him $4,000 to settle his IRS debt, with the understanding that he would help her “achieve what she wanted.”
Despite a previous attempt thwarted by UK authorities in 2024, Exelby traveled to Florida again in October 2025, leaving evidence on her computer linking her trip to her suicidal intentions.
Events Leading to Death
Upon arriving in Gainesville, Florida, on October 10, 2025, Exelby was picked up by Hall and taken to an Airbnb in Reddick. Before meeting her, Hall bought several items at Walmart, including a shovel.
On October 11, Exelby sent texts to a friend describing her fear and isolation. She recounted Hall’s controlling behavior and expressed regret.
Discovery and Arrest
After missing her return flight, Exelby was reported missing. Her debit card transactions eventually led investigators to Hall. Exelby’s body was found on October 17, 2025.
Hall was arrested on the same day. Deputy sheriffs stopped him on Interstate 75 near Ocala. A search of his belongings revealed a knife matching the wounds on Exelby.
Evidence and Trial
Hall initially denied knowing Exelby but acknowledged recording a video. The video, found later, showed Exelby visibly upset and recounting her perceived faults under Hall’s direction. The footage, along with Hall’s financial dealings, serves as crucial evidence.
Hall, held on multiple felony charges, potentially faces the death penalty. His attorney did not respond to requests for comments.
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