American Student on Trial for the Murder of Chinese Partner in London

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The trial of 25-year-old Joshua Michals, an American student at Goldsmiths, University of London, is currently underway at Woolwich Crown Court. Michals is accused of murdering his 31-year-old partner, Zhe Wang, also a student at the university, in a "brutal and savage attack" that allegedly took place on March 20, 2024.

The court heard that police discovered Wang's body face-up on her bedroom floor, with two stab wounds to her face, surrounded by a pool of blood. Prosecutor Henrietta Paget KC described the incident as a violent act perpetrated by someone who had only recently been in a relationship with Wang. Michals reportedly called for an ambulance and stated there was a "very serious incident" at Wang's flat in Manor Park, Lewisham, at around 11:08 PM.

During the emergency call, Michals claimed he was not present at the scene and that he did not believe Wang was breathing. However, further details emerged revealing that he had left the flat several hours before contacting emergency services. Evidence indicated that Wang had also been strangled.

The prosecution alleged that Michals attempted to cover up the crime in the hours following the attack, seeking legal advice from his father and disposing of blood-stained clothing in a bin bag. Additionally, significant WhatsApp communications between the couple revealed tensions, including Wang's insistence on Michals undergoing an STI test.

Wang was described by those who knew her as a quiet and gentle person, aspiring to complete her studies and return to China. The trial continues as more evidence is presented regarding the tragic circumstances surrounding her death.

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