An American student attending Goldsmiths has been convicted of killing his on-and-off girlfriend, attempting to justify his actions as 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 the previous year at her residence in south-east London. Michals asserted that the incident occurred following a dispute the day before, where Wang wrongly accused him of transmitting a sexually transmitted disease (STD).
During the trial at the Old Bailey, Michals explained that he had reservations about pursuing a relationship with Wang due to her germophobia. Wang had insisted that Michals undergo an STD test after noticing a red mark on her skin post-sex, although he did not carry the infection.
On the day following their argument, Michals visited Wang’s residence in Manor Park, Lewisham, with a charcuterie board to normalize the situation. However, upon arrival, he described Wang’s demeanor as cold. According to Michals, he encountered Wang holding a kitchen knife in a distressed state, leading to a struggle.
Prosecutor Henrietta Paget KC contended that Michals had reacted violently, stabbing Wang in a fit of rage. The prosecution emphasized the brutality of the attack and highlighted that Wang was slain in her own bedroom.
After the incident, Michals promptly contacted his father for legal advice, then utilized an Uber to return home before contacting emergency services nearly four hours later. Paget revealed that Wang likely survived for up to an hour post-attack. Michals justified his delayed call for help by stating he was not prepared and did not perceive an urgency.
Moreover, Michals attempted to erase incriminating WhatsApp conversations with Wang and discarded evidence including a knife, her phone, and the food he brought. Detectives later recovered the discarded items and retrieved the chat logs, indicating Wang’s persistent requests for Michals to undergo STD testing.
Following the trial, Michals, who pleaded not guilty, was found guilty of murder after approximately 16 hours and 31 minutes of jury deliberation at the Old Bailey. Detective Inspector Claire Guiver, who spearheaded the investigation, condemned Michals’ heinous actions and vowed to combat violence against women.
Michals, originally from Chicago, Illinois, pursued filmmaking at DePaul University before enrolling in a master’s program at Goldsmiths in London. Wang was studying for a master’s degree in Creative Writing and Education at the same institution.
Dr. Francis Gilbert, a senior lecturer at Goldsmiths, lauded Wang’s talents and character, describing her as an exceptional writer with a unique voice. He expressed deep sorrow over her loss and highlighted her positive impact on the university community.
Michals, residing in south-east London, awaits sentencing at a later date.