A US student studying in London has been found guilty of murdering his university girlfriend after police uncovered deleted messages revealing their volatile relationship.
Joshua Michals Guilty of Murdering Zhe Wang
Joshua Michals, 26, was convicted of fatally stabbing 31-year-old Zhe Wang. The pair shared a casual relationship that took a deadly turn.
Deleted Messages and Alibi Don’t Hold Up
Despite Michals trying to erase all evidence, investigators recovered deleted phone messages and forensic proof tying him to the killing.
On 20 March 2024, Michals made a 999 call reporting a “serious incident” but claimed he wasn’t at the scene. Police found Zhe with stab wounds to her face and signs of strangulation.
Michals was arrested and stayed silent about their relationship and the night’s events.
Months of Tension Revealed in Phone Chats
Forensic analysis showed the couple met after starting at Goldsmiths University in autumn 2023. Texts exposed months of friction, with Zhe demanding Michals get tested for STIs.
The night of the murder, Zhe arranged to meet him. Michals’ final message read “here” at 7:17pm, with phone records showing he left 40 minutes later. He returned home and waited hours before calling 999 at 11:08pm.
Bloodstained Clothes Sealed His Fate
Officers found bloodied clothing at Michals’ home, confirmed to be Zhe’s by DNA evidence.
Detective Inspector Claire Guiver said: “Michals carried out a brutal and savage attack on Zhe, who was described by her friends as a quiet and gentle woman enjoying her studies in London. Our thoughts remain with her family and friends, both in China and the UK. We are committed to tackling violence against women and girls and making London safer.
“The jury saw through his lies about accidentally killing Zhe during an alleged knife attack on himself. Michals is a dangerous, violent individual and will now face the full consequences.”
