Blaze Bernstein was stabbed at least 20 times in possible ‘rage killing’: Cops

A police report on Monday revealed that slain college student, Blaze Bernstein, was stabbed at least 20 times, in what authorities are calling a possible “act of rage.”

The Orange County Register reports that a search warrant affidavit revealed that 19-year-old Blaze, a University of Pennsylvania student, was home for the holidays in Foothill Ranch, Ca. when he was killed, and he may have been trying to sexually pursue Samuel Lincoln Woodward, 20. Woodward, currently behind bars in connection with Blaze’s death, attended high school with the victim.

Authorities said they uncovered social medias messages sent by Blaze in June, to two of his female friends that indicated Woodward “hit on him” and made him promise to keep it a secret.

In one message, Blaze wrote,”he made me promise not to tell anyone … but I have texted every one, uh oh.”

Samuel Woodward mugshot
Samuel Woodward [Photo: Police Handout]
On Jan. 2, Woodward reportedly met Blaze in the parking lot at the Foothills Chase Hobby Lobby, where Blaze allegedly kissed him on the lips as they sat in Woodward’s car. The suspect told police he pushed Blaze away. Woodward also “clenched up” his fists and jaws and said he “he wanted to tell Blaze to get off of him,” according to the affidavit.

During initial questioning, police noticed Woodward had scratches on his hands and dirt under his nails, which he explained away by saying he was in a “fight club.” After questioning, authorities kept Woodward under surveillance for two days while they tested DNA evidence.

Per court documents, Woodward was known in high school to have conservative views. He reportedly posted on social media about his love of the Bible and guns, while defending the Confederate Flag. He’s currently behind bars on suspicion of involvement in Blaze’s death, though no formal charges have been made yet. He’s expected to appear for an arraignment this week.

Blaze’s lifeless body was found on Jan. 9, just outside Borrego park, the last place Woodward claimed he saw him. Authorities reported he was found near shrubbery in a shallow grave.

The story is still developing. Check back with CrimeOnline as additional details become available.

Additional Reading 

BREAKING: ‘Friend’ arrested in connection with death of Blaze Bernstein

Blaze Bernstein Update: ‘Friend’ of murdered college student was shaking, had dirt under nails & scratch marks: Affidavit

Missing college student Blaze Bernstein found dead; foul play suspected: Police

Investigators still searching for missing college student, Blaze Bernstein, who was ‘excited’ to return back to school

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[Feature Photo: Blaze Bernstein/Facebook]