JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – A man accused of killing one woman and stabbing another at a Baymeadows hotel Saturday met the women on BackPage.com, according to the Jacksonville Sheriff's Office.
Police said Chad Hurst, 30, stabbed Jenna Miles less than five times, killing her at the Hawthorn Suites by Wyndam about 4:30 a.m. Police said Hurst stabbed the second victim, a 27-year-old who wasn't identified, more than 20 times.
Police said the surviving victim pulled the fire alarm for help and was able to identify Hurst to officers. The woman was hospitalized in critical condition.
Police said they studied phone records between Hurst and the victims. Hurst was arrested at his home 12 hours after the stabbings.
"We located him later that morning and interviewed him, and he denied everything, any involvement whatsoever," said Asst. Chief Chris Butler.
Police said this was the first time the victims and Hurst had met in person. Investigators said no sexual crime was committed.
Police said no weapon has been found.
Hurst is charged with murder and attempted murder, and is being held without bond at the Duval County jail. He made two first appearances in court, one on each charge, and his next hearing is scheduled for Nov. 18.
Hurst has a lengthy record, including arrests on charges of aggravated assault and battery and driving under the influence.