Authorities have identified the victim in a deadly stabbing near the University of Washington as 19-year-old Juniper Blessing.
Medical Examiner Rules Death a Homicide
According to the King County Medical Examiner’s Office, Blessing died from multiple stab wounds.
Court records cited by local media reported the victim suffered around 40 stab wounds to the head, neck, shoulders, arms, and hands.
Suspect Turned Himself In
Police said Christopher Leahy, 31, surrendered to the Bellevue Police Department on May 13, hours after surveillance images of the suspect were released publicly.
The Seattle Police Department confirmed Leahy was arrested on a murder charge.
Investigators Cite Surveillance Footage
Authorities said the stabbing happened at an off-campus apartment complex near the university.
Witnesses reportedly told investigators they saw Leahy near the building’s laundry room around the time of the attack.
One witness allegedly crossed paths with the suspect while entering the laundry room and later discovered the crime scene inside.
Investigators also said security footage captured the killing, even though video from that time period had allegedly been deleted before police recovered it.
Victim Remembered as Talented Singer
Blessing previously attended the New Mexico School for the Arts and was described by family members as a gifted singer.
The family said Blessing performed in college choir productions and had a “transcendent voice.”
In a public statement, the family said, “Juniper’s loss not only devastates us but diminishes the world.”
Investigation Ongoing
Police said the investigation remains active.
Authorities are asking anyone with information about the case to contact Seattle police detectives.
