She’s breaking her silence. Ashley Martson took to Instagram on Nov. 8 with a “very personal story” about the time she was kidnapped and almost killed by a stranger at the young age of 19. The 90 Day Fiancé star opened up about her traumatizing experience after her story was leaked.

“Many outlets were reaching out to me for comment,” the TLC star, 31, shared with her followers. “I reached out to @johnyates327 who was also sent the story and asked him to leak it first. I knew he would post it with the with dignity and respect with the understanding that this is a very sensitive subject.” John also posted a statement after he started receiving hateful messages for sharing her story.

“Like I was trying to explain before I got ripped from pillar to post I was only trying to help,” John wrote. “I was asked by Ashley to leak this so to all of you who thought I was trying to profit off this poor girls misfortune you can all go scratch. This is the last time I’ll ever get involved with stuff like this again.”

Several fans were sending Ashley supportive messages for being so open about her heartbreaking experience. “I’m so sorry, you are brave to share your tragedy,” one wrote in the comments, while another chimed in: “You are such a strong beautiful woman who deserves nothing but happiness. I wish you the best in life.” A third sweetly added, “Omg! Bless your heart. No wonder you’re such a badass! Love and light for you, girl!” Many 90 Day Fiancé viewers already feel a connection with Ashley after she made her debut with Jay Smith, as one of the show’s newest couples.

Ashley’s been sharing regular updates on social media as the Season 6 episodes continue to air. She recently posted a photo of Jay, 20, smiling after getting his K1 Visa approved and also shared a snap of them preparing to board their flight to the United States. Just one week ago, Ashley enjoyed a meal with her co-stars at Fogo de Chão. “Such a nice dinner with great people,” she captioned the snap. Fans are glad to see her surrounded by support during this tough time. In Touch reached out to Ashley for additional comment.

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