Springfield, Massachusetts – Testimony began in the trial of a Massachusetts man accused of the murder of his ex-girlfriend, Alexis Avery. Blake Scanlon is facing charges of murder and assault and battery with a dangerous weapon in connection with Avery’s death, who was brutally stabbed in her Westfield home on January 13, 2019.
Authorities were alerted to the crime after a male 911 caller, later identified as Scanlon, reported being seriously injured. Upon arrival, police discovered Avery’s lifeless body with multiple stab wounds. Scanlon, who was present at the scene, was found with what appeared to be self-inflicted injuries, as stated by the Hampden District Attorney at the time.
During the trial, evidence emerged that Scanlon confessed to the murder over the phone with 911 dispatch, stating, “I killed my girlfriend.” Investigators noted uncertainty regarding the timeline of the crime but suggested it may have occurred hours before Scanlon’s call to emergency services.
It was revealed that Scanlon and Avery had previously shared a residence and a child, with court documents indicating a history of a restraining order against Scanlon. Additionally, Scanlon had previously faced charges related to solicitation to commit murder and witness intimidation, although these charges were dismissed prior to the ongoing murder trial.
Throughout the trial, emotional testimonies from witnesses shed light on the events leading up to Avery’s tragic death, including interactions between Scanlon, Avery, and her family members. The prosecution painted a picture of a violent encounter, detailing the brutal nature of Avery’s death and Scanlon’s actions following the incident.
As the trial unfolds, the jury must grapple with determining Scanlon’s level of culpability in the crime, with defense arguments suggesting the possibility of a lesser crime or diminished capacity. The proceedings offer a glimpse into the tumultuous relationship between Scanlon and Avery, ultimately leaving the court to decide the fate of the accused in this tragic case of domestic violence.