Police hunt for ‘male companion’ seen fleeing slain college student’s apartment

The tragic death of 23-year-old Menghan Zhuang, also known as Emily King, has sent shockwaves through her community and beyond. The California Institute of the Arts senior was found unresponsive in her off-campus apartment in Newhall, California, on February 4, with injuries to her upper body. Authorities quickly launched a homicide investigation, revealing that a man seen climbing out of her second-story window the day before her body was discovered is now a person of interest. This heartbreaking incident has not only devastated her family and friends but has also raised questions about safety and justice in the close-knit community she called home.

The Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department has been working tirelessly to piece together the events surrounding Zhuang’s death. According to Lt. Michael Modica, who spoke during a press conference on February 12, Zhuang was found by her roommate, who immediately alerted authorities. First responders arrived at the scene, but unfortunately, Zhuang was pronounced dead upon their arrival. Modica emphasized that this was not a random act of violence, pointing to evidence that suggests Zhuang knew her assailant. The man in question, described as being in his 20s, of Asian descent, and wearing a long sleeve shirt and black pants, was captured on video footage climbing out of Zhuang’s apartment window the afternoon before her body was found. Investigators believe this individual was someone Zhuang trusted enough to bring into her home, as the two were seen together the night before her death. While authorities have not confirmed whether the man has any affiliation with CalArts, they are urging anyone with information to come forward.

The California Institute of the Arts, where Zhuang was an art major in her senior year, has been instrumental in supporting both the investigation and Zhuang’s grieving family. School administrators have been in close contact with Zhuang’s parents, who are Chinese nationals, to provide comfort and assistance during this incredibly difficult time. The CalArts community has also come together to honor Zhuang’s memory, with plans underway to create a memorial showcasing her artwork. This heartfelt gesture reflects the deep impact Zhuang had on those around her, as well as the vibrant spirit she brought to campus. Her classmates and professors remember her as a bright and talented individual, whose life was cut short in a brutal and senseless act of violence.

In an effort to bring justice to Zhuang’s family and closure to the community, a $20,000 reward has been offered for any information leading to the arrest and conviction of the person responsible for her death. Los Angeles County Supervisor Kathryn Barger, who announced the reward, expressed her commitment to ensuring that Zhuang’s loved ones receive the justice they deserve. “Menghan’s young life and bright future ended too soon in a brutal and tragic manner,” Barger said in a statement. “Menghan’s loved ones and the community at large deserve justice. I am committed to doing everything in my power to make that happen.” This sentiment has resonated deeply with the community, as many have come forward to express their support for Zhuang’s family and their hope for swift justice.

As the investigation continues, authorities are urging anyone with information about the case to contact the Los Angeles Sheriff’s Department at 323-890-5500 or, for those wishing to remain anonymous, the Los Angeles Regional Crime Stoppers at 800-222-8477. The Sheriff’s Department has also praised Zhuang’s roommate for her cooperation, clarifying that she is not a suspect in the case. Modica emphasized the importance of public involvement in solving this case, saying, “We hope people will have the courage to come forward and help investigators identify the individual responsible for this senseless and violent act.”

The loss of Menghan Zhuang has left a void in the lives of everyone who knew her, from her family and friends to her fellow students and professors at CalArts. Her untimely death serves as a stark reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of seeking justice for victims of violence. As the community comes together to mourn and honor her memory, there is a shared hope that her legacy will live on through her artwork and the impact she had on those around her. With the investigation ongoing, authorities remain determined to uncover the truth and bring closure to all those affected by this tragedy.