A Washington man has been charged with the murder of a University of Washington student in a brutal stabbing.
Charges and Potential Sentence
Christopher Leahy, 31, was charged on May 18 with first-degree murder with a deadly weapon enhancement in connection with the death of 19-year-old Juniper Blessing. If convicted, Leahy faces 264 to 344 months (22 to 28.6 years), including 240 to 320 months for the murder and an additional 24 months for the weapon enhancement.
The Murder
Leahy allegedly stabbed Blessing more than 40 times on May 10 while the student was doing laundry at an off-campus housing complex. Witnesses and surveillance footage indicate that Leahy stalked other residents at the complex and followed Blessing into the room where the attack occurred.
Investigation Details
Charging documents say Leahy was tracked by apps and video near campus buildings before and after the murder. Authorities stated there is no evidence the attack was motivated by hate, but additional charges may be considered if new evidence emerges.
