Jason Corbett’s story is one that touches the heart and stirs the soul — a man who lived for his family, sought happiness after heartbreak, and whose life ended far too soon under tragic and controversial circumstances.
Born in Limerick, Ireland, Jason Corbett was a devoted father, a hard-working professional, and by all accounts, someone who cherished simple joys — family barbecues, football matches, and time spent with his children. Life took a difficult turn for Jason in 2006 when his first wife, Margaret “Mags” Fitzpatrick, tragically passed away from an asthma attack, leaving him a widower with two young children. This devastating loss shaped the next chapter of his life, as Jason was determined to give his children a stable, loving home despite the grief that surrounded them.
In time, Jason hired Molly Martens, an American au pair, to help care for his son and daughter. Their relationship eventually evolved into romance, and they married in 2011. Jason then moved his life and his children across the ocean to North Carolina, hoping to rebuild and find new happiness. However, behind the scenes, tensions were growing — over parenting styles, Jason’s plans to return to Ireland, and the couple’s increasingly strained relationship.
On August 2, 2015, tragedy struck. Jason Corbett was found dead in his home, brutally beaten. The crime scene was horrifying and immediately raised questions that shook both sides of the Atlantic. His wife, Molly Martens, and her father, Thomas Martens — a retired FBI agent — were both present at the scene and later claimed they acted in self-defense. However, Jason’s family and Irish supporters were adamant: Jason was not a violent man, and the details surrounding his death pointed to something far more sinister.
The court proceedings that followed were emotionally charged. In 2017, Molly Martens and Thomas Martens were both convicted of second-degree murder and sentenced to lengthy prison terms. Throughout the trial, Jason was portrayed by the defense as aggressive, but friends, coworkers, and family members painted a very different picture — one of a man who lived for his kids and who dreamed of one day returning home to Ireland with them.
Jason’s story didn’t end with the verdict. Legal battles continued, with appeals and new trials granted, ensuring that the fight for justice carried on for years. His family, especially his sister Tracey Lynch and brother-in-law David Lynch, became fierce advocates for keeping Jason’s memory alive and protecting his children’s wellbeing.
At its core, the tragedy of Jason Corbett is not just about a crime — it’s about a man who loved deeply, who endured profound personal loss, and who simply wanted to build a better life for his family. It’s about two young children who lost both their parents in the blink of an eye and a family who had to fight tirelessly to bring the truth to light.
Today, Jason’s memory lives on in the hearts of those who knew and loved him. His story reminds us of the fragility of life, the importance of justice, and the enduring power of family. Even amidst pain and controversy, Jason’s spirit — as a father, a brother, a son, and a friend — continues to inspire all who hear his story.