Palm Beach County, Florida — A Florida woman has been charged with first-degree murder after authorities say she strangled her 97-year-old mother inside their shared home, later telling investigators that she believed she was helping her mother die “with dignity.”
The suspect, 66-year-old Martha Jo Blake, was arrested following an autopsy that determined her mother’s death was a homicide, according to a probable cause affidavit reviewed by investigators. The victim, Patricia Blake, was found dead inside her residence on December 26, prompting an investigation by the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office.
Initial Response and Changing Statements
Deputies responded to the home on the morning of December 26 after being notified of Patricia Blake’s death. Martha Blake was present at the residence and initially told officers she had last seen her mother alive the previous night.
Martha Blake informed deputies that her mother had suffered from Parkinson’s disease and a thyroid disorder, suggesting natural causes may have contributed to her death. Because Patricia Blake’s primary care physician was located in Maine, the case was referred to the Palm Beach County Medical Examiner’s Office for further evaluation.
Autopsy Reveals Signs of Homicide
The medical examiner’s findings raised immediate concerns. According to the affidavit, the autopsy revealed evidence that was “not consistent with a natural death.”
Among the findings:
- No post-mortem blood pooling in the nose, which examiners said was consistent with something being placed over the face
- Internal bleeding and petechiae in the eyes, cheeks, and inside the mouth
- A fresh fracture in the neck
- Hemorrhaging on both sides of the neck
Based on these findings, the medical examiner ruled Patricia Blake’s death a homicide.
Investigation Focuses on Caregiver Daughter
Investigators reviewed body camera footage from the scene and noted that Martha Blake was insistent on remaining with her mother’s body throughout the initial response.
After securing a search warrant for the home, deputies conducted a follow-up interview with Martha Blake inside a police vehicle. She was not under arrest at the time and agreed to speak with investigators.
According to the affidavit, Martha Blake told police she had been her mother’s full-time caregiver for approximately five years.
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Claims of “Death With Dignity” Discussions
During the interview, Martha Blake told deputies that she and her mother had previously discussed “death with dignity” with Patricia Blake’s physician in Maine roughly a year and a half before her death.
According to Martha Blake, the doctor informed them that Patricia Blake was not eligible for assisted dying because she was not terminally ill.
Investigators said Martha Blake admitted that she and her mother later discussed the possibility of ending her life using pills, but claimed they did not have access to medication that would be lethal.
Martha Blake allegedly told police that her mother had repeatedly expressed that “she did not want to live” and had made similar statements many times.
Confession After Miranda Warning
After being read her Miranda rights, Martha Blake reportedly maintained her account, telling police she believed she was honoring her mother’s wishes.
Authorities say her statements, combined with the medical examiner’s findings, supported probable cause for arrest.
Martha Blake was subsequently taken into custody and charged with first-degree murder.
Legal Status and Next Steps
Martha Blake is currently being held at the Main Detention Center in West Palm Beach and is being held without bond, according to jail records.
Her next court appearance is scheduled for January 25, 2026.
Prosecutors have not yet disclosed whether additional charges may be considered or whether the defense plans to pursue a legal argument related to assisted dying or mental health.
Broader Legal and Ethical Questions
The case raises complex legal and ethical questions surrounding end-of-life care, caregiving stress, and the strict legal boundaries of assisted dying laws.
Florida does not permit assisted suicide, even in cases involving severe illness or advanced age. Authorities emphasized that regardless of intent, causing another person’s death remains a criminal offense under state law.
The investigation remains active as prosecutors prepare for upcoming court proceedings.
What are your thoughts on how the legal system should address end-of-life decisions involving elderly patients and family caregivers? Share your perspective in the comments.
