An American student attending Goldsmiths University has been convicted of killing his on-and-off girlfriend, despite his claims of acting in self-defense. Joshua Michals, aged 26, fatally stabbed Zhe Wang, 31, a gentle Goldsmiths student, twice in the face and then strangled her in March of last year at her residence in south-east London.
During the trial at the Old Bailey, Michals alleged that the tragic incident occurred following a dispute the day prior, where Ms. Wang wrongly suspected him of transmitting a sexually transmitted disease (STD) to her. He expressed hesitancy about starting a relationship with Ms. Wang due to her germophobia.
Michals recounted that he visited Ms. Wang’s flat in Manor Park, Lewisham, the day after the argument, bearing a charcuterie assortment in an attempt to normalize the situation. However, he described Ms. Wang as distant upon his arrival, and a confrontation ensued where he claimed to have seen her wielding a kitchen knife in a disturbed manner, leading to a physical struggle.
The prosecution argued that Michals had acted in a fit of rage, launching a violent attack on Ms. Wang with a knife. Following the altercation, Michals contacted his father immediately for legal advice, took an Uber back home, and delayed calling emergency services for almost four hours. The prosecution highlighted that Ms. Wang could have survived for up to an hour after the assault.
Furthermore, it was revealed in court that Michals had attempted to erase WhatsApp conversations with Ms. Wang and disposed of crucial evidence, including the weapon and her phone. The recovered messages indicated Ms. Wang’s repeated requests for Michals to undergo STD testing in the months leading up to her demise.
Describing the victim, Ms. Wang, as a quiet and gentle individual during the trial, the prosecution emphasized her positive attributes and aspirations. Michals, denying the charges, was ultimately found guilty of murder after a lengthy deliberation process.
Detective Inspector Claire Guiver, who oversaw the investigation, condemned Michals’ actions, labeling him as a dangerous and violent individual. She reiterated the commitment to combating violence against women and assured continued efforts to enhance safety in London.
Originally from Chicago, Illinois, Michals had pursued filmmaking at DePaul University before enrolling in a master’s program at Goldsmiths in London. Ms. Wang, on the other hand, was studying Creative Writing and Education at the same university.
In the aftermath of the trial, Dr. Francis Gilbert, a senior lecturer at Goldsmiths, mourned the loss of Ms. Wang, praising her talent as a writer and her positive impact on the university community. He announced plans to publish her work in an upcoming anthology.
Michals, residing in south-east London, is awaiting sentencing in the future.