WEST PALM BEACH, FL (Boca Post) (Copyright © 2025) — A West Palm Beach woman has been charged with first-degree murder following a death investigation that began late Thursday on Ashley Drive West.

According to investigators, deputies responded on December 26, 2025, to the 2800 block of Ashley Drive West after receiving a call regarding a death inside a residence. When deputies arrived, they located a deceased woman later identified as Patricia Blake.

Because Blake’s primary care physician was located out of state, the death was referred to the Palm Beach County Medical Examiner’s Office for further examination. An autopsy was conducted, and the Medical Examiner identified multiple findings that were inconsistent with a natural death.

The Medical Examiner ultimately ruled the manner of death a homicide, prompting notification of the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office Violent Crimes Division. Detectives took over the investigation and began a follow-up review of the circumstances surrounding the death.

As part of that investigation, detectives executed a search warrant at the Ashley Drive West residence. Investigators also conducted interviews connected to the case as they worked to determine what led to the homicide finding.

During the course of the investigation, Martha Jo Blake was interviewed by detectives. Investigators determined she was involved in the murder, according to the sheriff’s office.

Blake was taken into custody and transported to the Palm Beach County Jail early Friday morning. Jail records show she was booked shortly after midnight on December 27.

Court records list a charge of first-degree murder, premeditated, a capital felony under Florida law. Bond information indicates no bond has been set.

A first appearance hearing was scheduled for Friday morning, and court records show the defendant remained in custody following that appearance. A public defender was appointed for first appearances only, according to the docket.

Additional court filings indicate probable cause was found in the case. A motion for pretrial detention was filed and later granted, court records show.

Future court dates were scheduled, including a return appearance in late January and an initial case conference set for February. Notices of hearing and related court documents were filed the same day as the arrest.

No additional details about the circumstances of Patricia Blake’s death have been released. The investigation remains with the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office Violent Crimes Division.

As this investigation develops, additional police activity updates are tracked on Boca Post’s police activity page.