Virginia Woman Strangled as Child Slept Nearby: Authorities Seek Suspect

A tragic incident in Virginia has shocked the community as authorities investigate the violent death of 28-year-old Katlyn Lyon Montgomery. On October 7, 2022, emergency responders found Katlyn with severe neck injuries in her apartment, where her four-year-old daughter, Milani, was sleeping nearby.

Investigation into Katlyn Lyon Montgomery’s Death

Initial thoughts by first responders suggested a drug overdose. However, upon further examination, Kamylyn was found to have been strangled. Crystal Sale, Katlyn’s mother, was informed by medical staff that her daughter’s injuries were not consistent with drug use but rather indicative of a violent assault.

Details of the Assault

Lead investigator Robbie Burnette, from the Bedford County Sheriff’s Office, revealed the discovery of two distinctive parallel marks on Katlyn’s neck, signaling a recent attack. He suggested that the violence likely occurred shortly before first responders were called to the scene, estimating the assault took place within an hour of the emergency call.

Finding Evidence

Investigators focused on Katlyn’s apartment, which had become a crime scene. While searching, they discovered a charging cord wrapped in her comforter, which suggested a potential weapon. However, due to prior disturbances by EMTs and family, evidence gathering became problematic.

Live Investigation and Potential Suspects

Initially, Katlyn’s roommate, Jacob Piercy, was considered a primary suspect due to his presence in the apartment. Neighbors reported seeing an unfamiliar man near the apartment complex, leading to strong suspicions about Katlyn’s ex-boyfriend, Trenton Frye. Frye, who lived three hours away, was contacted by police during the investigation.

• Key Suspects:
  • Jacob Piercy – Roommate of Katlyn, present during the incident.
  • Trenton Frye – Katlyn’s ex-boyfriend, had a tumultuous relationship with her.

Eyewitness Accounts

Milani, Katlyn’s daughter, reportedly told investigators her “brother killed my mom,” likely referencing Jacob due to his close relationship with the family. Investigators later learned Milani witnessed Jacob performing CPR on her mother, momentarily confusing the child.

The Relationship that Turned Sour

Katelyn’s relationship with Frye had its problems. After discovering he had lied about his financial stability, Katlyn ended things ten days before her death. Frye exhibited obsessive behaviors, including surveillance of her apartment complex.

The Arrest of Trenton Frye

On October 20, 2022, authorities arrested Frye after extensive investigations linked him to the murder. Digital evidence revealed he had been in the vicinity of Katlyn’s apartment during the critical hours leading up to the attack. This included cell tower pings showing his location near her home.

Trial and Sentencing

Frye was charged with first-degree murder and pleaded not guilty, denying any involvement. The trial featured evidence from the prosecution demonstrating Frye’s presence inside Katlyn’s apartment, including a connection made via Bluetooth to her iPad right after she went to bed.

After deliberations, the jury found Frye guilty of first-degree murder. He faced the consequences with a life sentence, as Katlyn’s family sought justice through a public campaign highlighting domestic violence awareness.

Honoring Katlyn’s Memory

In the aftermath of this tragedy, Katlyn’s family continues to advocate for victims of domestic violence and honors her memory with campaigns for awareness. Crystal Sale has utilized platforms like TikTok to share their story and seek support, emphasizing the need for community awareness regarding domestic violence.

This heartbreaking case highlights the urgent need to address domestic violence and support victims in need, ensuring that their stories do not fade into silence.