Ohio Man Sentenced to 45 Years for Strangling Ex-Girlfriend During Myrtle Beach Trip

Horry County, S.C. – A 20-year-old Ohio man, Blake Linkous, has been sentenced to 45 years in prison after pleading guilty to strangling his ex-girlfriend, Natalie Martin, to death while they were on a group trip to Myrtle Beach in 2023.

Linkous, a resident of Blue Rock, Ohio, entered his guilty plea just before his murder trial was set to begin, according to the 15th Circuit Solicitor’s Office. Despite having no prior criminal history, he faced 30 years to life in prison had he gone to trial.

A Tragic End to a Young Life

The victim, 18-year-old Natalie Martin, was found dead on June 6, 2023, inside a Maison Drive home in Myrtle Beach. The two were part of a group trip celebrating their high school graduation. However, what was meant to be a joyous occasion turned into a nightmare.

According to prosecutors, Linkous was described as a controlling, jealous, and insecure individual throughout their three-year relationship. Even though the couple had broken up and agreed to see other people, Linkous became enraged when he discovered that Martin had been texting another boy. This anger ultimately led him to take her life.

Justice for Natalie Martin

The case drew widespread attention, with Martin’s family and friends traveling from Ohio to South Carolina to attend the trial in Conway. However, before proceedings could begin, Linkous admitted his guilt and accepted responsibility for Martin’s tragic death.

Chief Deputy Solicitor Scott Hixson expressed relief that Martin’s family was spared the emotional toll of a lengthy trial.

“We were ready to prosecute the case during trial this week, but Mr. Linkous decided to admit his responsibility in Ms. Martin’s death,” Hixson said. “We are glad the family was spared a trial, and they accepted his guilty plea and sentence.”

A Life Cut Short

Martin’s murder serves as a devastating reminder of the dangers of domestic violence and toxic relationships. What should have been a celebratory trip for a young woman with her entire future ahead of her ended in a senseless act of violence.

While no sentence can bring Natalie Martin back, her loved ones can now take solace in the fact that justice has been served. Blake Linkous will spend 45 years behind bars, ensuring that he is held accountable for his irreversible actions.