Man Admits Killing Receptionist at Bournemouth Travelodge
Stephen Cole, 32, from Bournemouth, has pleaded guilty to the killing of receptionist Marta Elena Vento at a Travelodge hotel. He appeared at Winchester Crown Court on Tuesday 4 May 2021 and is set to be sentenced on Tuesday 1 June 2021.
Woman Found Dead at Hotel
At around 8am on Wednesday 9 December 2020, police were called to the Travelodge on Christchurch Road following reports that a woman had been found dead. The victim was identified as 27-year-old Marta Elena Vento, a Spanish national working as a receptionist at the hotel.
Suspect Confesses at Police Station
Shortly after the discovery, Cole arrived at Bournemouth police station and told officers he had just killed someone. He was immediately arrested and taken into custody. When arrested, Cole carried a bag containing blood-stained clothes, along with a lanyard and keys matching those used by Marta at work.
During police interviews, Cole admitted to causing Marta’s death. Following mental health assessments, he has been detained under the Mental Health Act and remains under care throughout the court process.
Tragic Death Confirmed by Post-Mortem
The post-mortem on 10 December 2020 revealed Marta died from multiple blunt force injuries.
Detective Chief Inspector Jez Noyce, Dorset Police Major Crime Investigation Team, said: “This is an extremely sad and deeply shocking incident where a young woman lost her life in tragic circumstances. My thoughts and sympathies continue to remain with Marta Elena Vento’s family.”
