On June 11, 2024, a peaceful Ankara, Turkey neighborhood was disrupted by a tragic event. David Thomas Blyth, a 53-year-old British oil magnate, fatally shot his wife, Victoria Vera Blyth, then ended his own life. The dispute that led to the murder-suicide reportedly originated from text messages found on Victoria’s phone.
The couple’s children, ages four, 10, and 14, were unharmed during the incident and remained in the house. Victoria’s family, who arrived in Turkey following the incident, took custody of the children. Victoria’s sister, Alexandra, shared a heartfelt message on Instagram: “It is with deep sadness and pain that I have to announce that my beloved and beautiful sister, the sunshine of our lives who brought us so much joy, with her laughter, positive spirit, drive, and energy, has left us forever.”
Victoria, 40, was recognized for her dynamic personality and as a co-host on Europe 2’s Morning Show with Czech broadcaster Leoš Mareš. Born in South Africa, she moved to the Czech Republic with her family when she was young, and gained fame after releasing her first album in 2004. Her varied career also included meaningful charitable work with groups like Velvet Smile, which aids families of sick and disabled children and victims of domestic abuse.
David Blyth, the owner of the international company ASG Inspection, had a prosperous career in the oil sector. The Blyths lived in Prague early in their marriage but relocated to Turkey in 2019 for David’s work.
Friends of the couple disclosed that their marriage had been strained by jealousy and infidelity. According to a close confidant, Victoria had been considering leaving David and returning to the Czech Republic. She had discussed her plans with friends through text messages, which David found, triggering the fatal encounter.
In her last interview, Victoria alluded to uncertainty about the future, saying, “You never know what can happen.” Despite her positive outlook on future endeavors, she recognized the unpredictable nature of life.
Victoria’s charitable activities included founding DazSpor, an organization that hosted running races throughout Turkey, including Ankara’s inaugural half-marathon.
The investigation into the incident by Turkish police is still ongoing, with few details available. Both the UK Foreign Office and the Czech Ministry of Foreign Affairs offered consular assistance to the family. A spokesperson for the Foreign, Commonwealth, and Development Office said, “We are supporting the family of a British man who has died in Turkey and have been in contact with the local authorities.”
