A heartbreaking murder case has shocked investigators after a 19-year-old woman was found dead, bound to a bed inside an apartment.
Authorities say her boyfriend, 24-year-old Thomaz Hamilton, is now facing multiple serious felony charges in connection with the death of Isabella Stroupe. Investigators allege the young woman suffered months of abuse before her death, making the case even more disturbing.
Boyfriend Charged in Death of 19-Year-Old Woman
Police say Thomaz Hamilton, 24, has been charged with:
- First-degree murder
- First-degree rape
Authorities launched the investigation after Hamilton reportedly called 911 on May 1, claiming his girlfriend was not breathing.
When officers arrived at the apartment, they made a horrifying discovery.
Victim Found Bound to Bed Inside Apartment
According to investigators, officers found Isabella Stroupe inside a bedroom.
Police say she was:
- Wearing very little clothing
- Bound to a bed using restraints
- Unresponsive when first responders arrived
She was pronounced dead at the scene.
Authorities say the condition of the room immediately raised suspicions.
Investigators Found Severe Injuries
According to the arrest affidavit, Stroupe had multiple traumatic injuries.
Investigators reportedly found:
- Broken bones
- Multiple stab wounds
- Signs of prolonged physical abuse
Medical examiners later ruled her death a homicide.
Police now believe she may have endured repeated torture over a period of months before her death.
Suspect Claimed Victim Had a Medical Emergency
According to investigators, Hamilton initially told police that he and Stroupe were having sex when she suddenly suffered what he believed was a heart attack.
However, evidence found at the apartment reportedly contradicted that explanation.
Authorities say the injuries and physical evidence pointed toward violent criminal acts rather than a medical emergency.
Search of Apartment Revealed Disturbing Evidence
During a search of the apartment, investigators reportedly found several suspicious items, including:
- A blood-stained knife wrapped in plastic
- A baseball bat
- A sword
- Clothing with possible blood stains
- A mattress with suspected blood evidence
Police say Stroupe was restrained using a tow strap.
Investigators believe the evidence suggests prolonged abuse.
Authorities Say Victim Could Not Have Given Consent
According to court documents, investigators believe Isabella Stroupe was physically incapable of consenting to sexual activity at the time of the incident.
This finding led prosecutors to add the first-degree rape charge.
Investigators continue reviewing forensic evidence as the criminal case moves forward.
Family Remembers Isabella as Creative and Kind
Loved ones say Isabella was a bright, creative young woman with many passions.
Her family describes her as someone who loved:
- Books
- Fan fiction
- My Little Pony
- Sharing her creativity with others
Her sister, Marleigh Bailey, created an online fundraiser and shared emotional memories about Isabella’s love for storytelling and the happiness she brought to her family.
Court Proceedings Continue
Authorities say Thomaz Hamilton remains in custody.
His next court appearance is scheduled later this month as prosecutors prepare to present evidence.
Investigators say the case remains active.
The death of Isabella Stroupe has left a family grieving and a community searching for answers. What should have been the beginning of a young woman’s future instead became the center of a deeply disturbing criminal investigation.
As prosecutors continue building their case, Isabella’s loved ones are remembering not the horrific circumstances of her death, but the creativity, kindness, and joy she brought into their lives. Her family now hopes justice will be served in her memory.
