Snapped: Killer Couples – The Case of Brittany Overton and Justin Blake

In this gripping bonus episode of Snapped: Women Who Murder, Oxygen delves into the harrowing true crime case involving Brittany Overton and Justin Blake. This detailed account unravels the intricate web of relationships, deceit, and violence that led to the tragic murder of Alex Jackson in Morgan County, Indiana.

1. Introduction to the Case

The episode opens by setting the stage in a quiet Midwestern community, Morgan County, known for its family-friendly atmosphere and low crime rates. However, this tranquility is shattered on September 13, 2019, when the body of Alex Jackson is discovered, marking the beginning of a complex investigation.

2. The Victim: Alex Jackson

Alex Jackson, a 23-year-old environmental science student from Jacksonville, Illinois, was described by friends as "bright, brainy, outgoing, caring, and bubbly". Alex had recently moved to Indianapolis to live with his aunt and explore his identity, including his coming out as gay during his sophomore year at Western University (06:05).

Justin Blake [06:05]: "Alex was really outgoing, caring, bubbly. He loves science, everything with trees. He always just wanted to do what he could to help the environment."

Despite his promising future, Alex's life took a downward turn after moving out of his aunt's home in July 2017. Issues such as leaking water in his apartment forced him into unstable living situations, leading him to associate with new, questionable acquaintances (10:12).

3. Discovery of the Crime

On September 13, 2019, at approximately 3 PM, a local resident panics and calls 911 after discovering a deceased person lying along a fence on their property. The body exhibited signs of advanced decomposition, a gunshot wound to the head, and a missing right pocket, initially suggesting a possible robbery (03:00).

Alex's Mother, Wilona Jackson [07:56]: "I just remember laying down and crying. My heart had been ripped out. I couldn't believe that this was happening. Who would want to hurt him?"

4. Initial Investigation

Detective Mark Anderson and the Morgan County Sheriff's Office began their investigation by examining the crime scene. Seven 9mm shell casings were found, pointing to an automatic handgun, possibly a Glock. Blood traces suggested a struggle occurred near the fence (04:33).

Detective Mark Anderson [05:25]: "The investigation will take a sharp turn as rumors of a toxic romance come into focus, leading to the discovery of a disturbing betrayal."

5. Developing Lines of Inquiry

As investigators delved deeper, they explored Alex's personal life, particularly his online dating activities on Grindr. Concerns arose about the dangers associated with meeting strangers, especially predators posing as potential partners (03:46).

Justin Blake [12:08]: "Anytime you're dealing with one of these dating apps, there's a concern that you don't know who you're dealing with. And unfortunately, there could be predators out there."

6. Justin Blake: A Suspect Emerges

Justin Blake entered the investigation as a suspect after his fingerprints were found in Alex's rental car. Justin, an 18-year-old with a troubled past, had reconnected with his grandmother six months prior and was known for his criminal history, including a recent arrest for a stolen vehicle and firearm (24:26).

Justin Blake [25:02]: "I still cannot wrap my mind around how you could be so close to somebody and do something so horrific."

7. The Breakthrough: Linking Justin and Brittany

A crucial tip led investigators to Brittany Overton, a friend of both Justin Blake and Alex Jackson. Cell phone records placed Brittany near the crime scene at the time of the murder, and DNA evidence linked her to the rental car (32:38).

Detective Mark Anderson [33:20]: "And fourth, 31 AM on September 9, investigators have the evidence they need to secure a warrant for Brittany's arrest."

8. The Arrests and Charges

On October 3, 2020, Brittany Overton and Justin Blake were arrested. Charges included murder, felony murder, and robbery against Justin, while Brittany faced felony murder and robbery charges. The prosecution's case was strengthened by Brittany's testimony and the accumulation of physical and digital evidence (34:26).

Detective Mark Anderson [42:23]: "On October 3, 2020, more than a year after Alex Jackson's murder, police take Justin Blake and Brittany Overton into custody."

9. The Trial and Conviction

During the trial in February 2022, prosecutors argued that Justin and Brittany orchestrated the murder to cover up their robbery of Alex. Despite Justin's defense team attempting to shift blame solely onto Brittany, the jury convicted him of all charges, sentencing him to 61 years in prison. Brittany accepted a plea deal, receiving a 20-year sentence with the possibility of parole in 2033 (43:32; 44:25).

Justin Blake [43:45]: "I just will never understand why."

10. Aftermath and Reflections

The case concluded with both individuals facing severe consequences for their involvement in Alex Jackson's murder. Brittany Overton was deemed eligible for parole in 2033, while Justin Blake faces a lengthy incarceration until 2066.

Detective Mark Anderson [45:14]: "They took an amazing person. And that was part of the problem. He was so trusting and befriended people because he saw the good in everyone."

The episode underscores the tragic loss of a promising young man and serves as a cautionary tale about the perils of dangerous associations and the complexities of human relationships in criminal activities.

Notable Quotes with Timestamps

• Justin Blake: "I still cannot wrap my mind around how you could be so close to somebody and do something so horrific." [00:26]

• Detective Mark Anderson: "The investigation will take a sharp turn as rumors of a toxic romance come into focus, leading to the discovery of a disturbing betrayal." [05:25]

• Justin Blake: "Anytime you're dealing with one of these dating apps, there's a concern that you don't know who you're dealing with. And unfortunately, there could be predators out there." [12:08]

• Detective Mark Anderson: "On October 3, 2020, more than a year after Alex Jackson's murder, police take Justin Blake and Brittany Overton into custody." [42:23]

• Justin Blake: "I just will never understand why." [43:45]

• Detective Mark Anderson: "They took an amazing person. And that was part of the problem. He was so trusting and befriended people because he saw the good in everyone." [45:14]

This comprehensive summary captures the essence of the episode, highlighting the key developments, character backgrounds, and pivotal moments that led to the unraveling of this tragic case. For those unfamiliar with the episode, it provides a clear and engaging overview of the complexities involved in the investigation and the eventual justice served.