Inset: Kayla Hodgson (GoFundMe). Background: Sakiyna Thompson testifies in her own defense in her trial for allegedly murdering Hodgson (WTVJ).
A woman who allegedly journeyed from New York to Florida with the intent to kill her ex-boyfriend’s new partner has taken the stand in her defense on Monday. She asserts that the killing of the woman — who had been stabbed multiple times — was in self-defense.
Sakiyna Thompson, aged 31, is on trial for the murder of 23-year-old Kayla Hodgson. Broward County Sheriff’s Office deputies allege Thompson killed Hodgson at Hodgson’s residence in Tamarac on July 13, 2022. As per a report in the courtroom by local NBC outlet WTVJ, Thompson stated she traveled from New York to Florida intending to have a face-to-face discussion with Hodgson.
Thompson is conceding the fact that she killed Hodgson, but reportedly told jurors she did so in self-defense.
“You didn’t kill her because she was fighting you?” a prosecutor asked.
“No,” Thompson responded. “I killed her because she took the glass from the hookah and slashed me across the stomach.”
Pregnant at the time, the accused claimed she lost consciousness and, upon regaining awareness, found herself gripping the weapon and seeing Hodgson lying lifeless in blood. Hodgson had been inflicted with numerous stab injuries, as prosecutors reportedly indicated.
Thompson then allegedly changed into a set of the victim’s clothes and tried to clean up the scene before fleeing.
“I was walking in the blood,” she reportedly said.
Thompson did not call 911, she explained, out of fear and instead returned to New York. Authorities captured her on August 3, 2022, and she was sent back to Florida to face charges of first-degree murder.
The prosecution and defense were set to give closing arguments on Tuesday.
Hodgson’s family set up a GoFundMe account after her death.
“Kayla meant a great deal to countless people — she was a wonderful daughter, a beloved and cherished older sister, niece, granddaughter, and cousin, with relationships that were unique,” the fundraiser expressed. “She was loved by everyone, making friends wherever she went.”
