Betrayal and Tragedy: Teen Accused of Murdering His Ex-Girlfriend during their Senior Trip

A tragic incident unfolded during a senior trip to Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, where an Ohio teenager allegedly strangled his ex-girlfriend. 

The victim's best friend revealed that after the heinous act, the accused locked himself in a room with the lifeless body for several hours before emerging with self-inflicted stab wounds to his chest. 

The horrifying incident took place at a vacation rental where the group of friends was staying, turning their post-graduation celebration into a nightmare.

According to Brooklyn Ferrell, who has been in contact with the victim's mother and the traumatized individuals present, she and Natalie Martin had been best friends since childhood. 

They had recently graduated from Philo High School in Duncan Falls, Ohio. 

The day before the tragic discovery, Martin and her ex-boyfriend, Blake Linkous, had an argument over her texting another man, but the disagreement seemed to have been resolved quickly.

After a night out at a club, Martin wasn't feeling well and decided to return home early with Linkous. 

Two friends tried to enter the house upon their return but had to use the back door as nobody responded to their knocks at the front. 

One of them heard three loud thuds but didn't notice anything unusual in the living room. 

However, when they tried to enter the bedroom where Martin and Linkous were sleeping, they found the door locked.

As the night progressed, the rest of the group returned home and went to sleep. 

Two hours later, Linkous emerged from the room, bleeding and in a frantic state, repeatedly stating that Martin wouldn't wake up. 

Ferrell revealed that Linkous had been alone with the lifeless body for several hours.

Linkous, known for his temper, had a history of violence. 

He and Martin had dated for three years before their breakup in February, which followed an alleged assault by Linkous in front of their friends. 

Despite his attempts to reconcile and apologize, Martin's friend never suspected that he was capable of such extreme violence.

The tragic event has deeply affected the small Ohio town, and a GoFundMe campaign has been started to support Martin's family. 

Linkous was arrested on a murder charge and is currently held without bond. 

The community mourns the loss of Martin, a beloved member known for her nurturing nature and passion for children and outdoor activities.