The Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department (LASD) is asking for the public’s help in identifying a person of interest in the murder of 23-year-old Menghan Zhuang, a California Institute of the Arts (CalArts) student.
What Happened?
On February 4, at around 6:47 p.m., Santa Clarita deputies and fire personnel responded to a condominium complex in Newhall after receiving a call about an unresponsive person.
Key Details of the Investigation
- Zhuang was found inside her condo on the 21000 block of Nandina Lane with severe injuries to her upper body.
- Fire personnel attempted medical aid, but she was pronounced dead at the scene.
- Investigators determined that Zhuang had arrived at the condo the night before (Feb. 3) with an unidentified man.
- Surveillance footage shows the same man exiting the condo through a second-story bedroom window on the afternoon of Feb. 4, the day she was found.
Who Is the Suspect?
Detectives have released a photo of the person of interest and are urging the public to help identify him.
“It is clear this was not a random act of violence, and Menghan knew the suspect, as she invited him into her apartment,” said Lt. Michael Modica.
Investigators have not confirmed whether the suspect is a CalArts student.
Roommate Not a Suspect
Authorities stated that Zhuang’s roommate has cooperated fully with the investigation and is not considered a suspect.
Who Was Menghan Zhuang?
Zhuang, who also went by the name Emily King, was:
- A Chinese national studying in the U.S. on a student visa.
- A senior undergraduate student at CalArts in Valencia.
- Living in the country for three and a half years before her tragic death.
CalArts Statement
CalArts released a statement mourning her loss:
“Emily was a valued member of our community. Our heartfelt condolences go out to her family, friends, classmates, and teachers. The LASD has informed us that there is no evidence of any threat to the CalArts community, and we are cooperating fully with the investigation.”
Reward for Information
The Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors is set to approve a $20,000 reward for information leading to the arrest of the person responsible.
- The reward is expected to go into effect on Thursday, February 13, pending formal approval on Tuesday, February 18.
How to Provide Information
Anyone with information is urged to contact:
- LASD Homicide Bureau: (323) 890-5500
- Crime Stoppers (Anonymous Tips): (800) 222-TIPS (8477)
- Submit Tips Online: lacrimestoppers.org
