Model Natalia Villalba Found Dead Inside Suitcase at Luxury Shortlet Apartment
Colombian model and influencer Natalia Villalba, 36, was found dead inside a suitcase at a luxury short-term rental apartment in Bogotá's upscale El Chicó neighbourhood. Police arrested a 46-year-old British ex-doctor, Matthew Ashley Foster-Smith, in connection with her death.
Timeline of Events
Villalba checked into the apartment on June 3 and was scheduled to leave on June 21. When a cleaner entered the apartment on June 22, they discovered her body hidden inside a suitcase. Colombian authorities launched an investigation, leading them to Foster-Smith.
According to the Colombian Attorney General's Office, investigators believe Foster-Smith entered Villalba's apartment while she was alone, assaulted her, and placed her body in the suitcase. He allegedly tampered with the crime scene before fleeing the country.
Arrest of Ex-Doctor
Foster-Smith was traced and arrested at Quito International Airport in Ecuador on June 26. Before his arrest, he denied involvement in an interview with The Sun, claiming he was watching England's World Cup match and later shopping. Reports indicate he has a prior criminal record in the United Kingdom.
Social Media Reactions
The case sparked reactions online. Angelina Jolly commented, 'Colombia have also started misbehaving..' Gady Sonai said, 'People are just commenting they don't even know it's Colombia.' Mudialo Mildred warned, 'Be very careful with the money and rich men.' Princess Abitto wrote, 'Soft life is finishing our girls.' Bernard Wasike remarked, 'Love gone sour and this Airbnb will finish our materialistic ladies.' Kaka Njosh added, 'Our beloved Materialistic Ladies your injection always await you at Airbnb.'
Other Notable Deaths
In related news, Grammy-winning Nigerian singer Talay Riley, 35, died after a stabbing in East London on June 5. Archbishop Dr Richard Samuel Addae also passed away on June 26, 2026.
