A “quiet and gentle” Goldsmiths University student, Zhe Wang, was fatally stabbed in her flat in Hither Green, southeast London, during what prosecutors have described as a “savage and brutal attack.” The accused, 24-year-old American student Joshua Michals, is currently on trial for her murder at a London court.
Zhe Wang, 31, a Chinese national, was studying for a master’s degree in Creative Writing and Education and was described by her peers as talented, organised, and close to her family. On the night of March 20 last year, she was found dead in her Manor Park flat with two stab wounds to her face and additional signs of assault. Prosecutor Henrietta Paget told the jury that Zhe was killed in her own bedroom during an act of “sustained violence.
The Events Leading Up to the Incident
The court heard that Zhe and Michals had known each other for several months and had begun a sexual relationship in February 2024. On the night of her death, Michals called 999 from his flat in Deals Gateway, stating that Zhe had been injured at her flat and alleging that she had attacked him. He claimed to have sustained only minor scratches in the encounter. During the call, Michals commented that it was “too late for anyone to help her” and subsequently hung up to phone his father. When paramedics called him back, he reportedly said, “It’s all just so f***ed.”
When police arrived at Zhe’s flat, they forced entry after receiving no response. Inside, officers found Zhe lying face-up on the floor of her bedroom, surrounded by bloodstains on the carpet and walls. She was pronounced dead at the scene.
A post-mortem examination revealed that Zhe had suffered stab wounds to her face and evidence of neck compression. The injuries suggested a prolonged physical assault.
Prosecution’s Case
Prosecutor Henrietta Paget told the jury:
“This case concerns the killing of a young woman by a man whom she had only been seeing for a few short months. This was a brutal and savage attack, as the evidence of her injuries and from the scene plainly shows.”
The prosecution alleged that Michals had called emergency services after the attack but failed to provide assistance. Upon his arrest, Michals reportedly told officers, “Yeah, but it’s not what it seems.”
The Victim: Zhe Wang
Zhe Wang was described as a dedicated student with aspirations of becoming a teacher. According to her tutor and fellow students, she was a talented writer who planned to complete a PhD and return to China to pursue her dreams. Known for her kindness and discipline, she maintained close ties with her family and took pride in her academic work.
Defense Argument
Michals denies the charge of murder. His defense claims that the stabbing occurred accidentally while he was defending himself against an attack by Zhe. The trial is ongoing, with more evidence and witness testimonies expected to be presented in the coming days.
Community Impact
The tragic incident has left both the university and local community in shock. Goldsmiths University described Zhe as a “bright and promising student” and extended its condolences to her family and friends.
The trial continues at the Crown Court.
