NEWARK, Ohio — The family of a 21-year-old Newark woman confirmed she died Saturday after police said she was brutally beaten by her long-time boyfriend last weekend.
Tala Smith’s family said it was hard to see their fun-loving girl in a hospital bed in the condition she was in. They said this was completely unexpected.
“She is unrecognizable as my baby girl,” said Tala’s dad, David Tolbert.
Smith's family describes her as outgoing, bubbly and a tad ornery.
“She loved drawing, that was her passion. She loved just going and having fun. She loved hanging out with her little brother,” Tolbert said.
Newark police said around midnight on March 16, her boyfriend of five years, Andrew Hoskinson, beat and strangled Smith.
“We are just asking right now for prayer for us,” Tolbert said.
Police believe part of the assault happened near the Manning Street Bridge. They are asking residents to contact police if they may have witnessed anything related to the incident.
At this time, Hoskinson has been charged with attempted murder, domestic violence and strangulation and is being held on a $1.5 million bond. Those charges may be subject to change amid Smith's death.
“Tala had such a loving heart. We decided to get some good out of the situation, that donating her organs would be a way for other people to be saved and families out of this bad situation,” Tolbert said.
Tolbert said they did not know about any abuse in the relationship, but said if you or someone you know are in an unsafe relationship, don't let it end like Tala.
“Please ask for help,” he said.
Newark police are still investigating and charges could be amended.