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Prosecutors Release Video Showing Alleged Stalking and Camera Tampering Before UW Student's Murder

Officials say the footage shows repeated entries, unplugging of a security camera and attempts to access nearby residences, a development that sharpens questions about off‑campus safety and the defendant's intent.

Overview

  • On May 10, 19‑year‑old University of Washington student Juniper Blessing was found fatally stabbed in the Nordheim Court laundry room off campus.
  • Police say 31‑year‑old Christopher Leahy turned himself in on May 12 and has been charged with first‑degree murder with a deadly‑weapon enhancement and held on high bail.
  • King County prosecutors released surveillance video late in May that they say shows Leahy entering the laundry room multiple times, returning when Blessing was alone and unplugging the security camera shortly before the attack.
  • Prosecutors also released other security footage they say shows Leahy attempting to open private doors in the Ravenna neighborhood and at least one other campus building in the days before the killing.
  • Leahy’s pretrial hearing was delayed after his lawyer requested more time for mental‑health evaluations, investigators continue to probe motive and community members and Blessing’s family have called for better off‑campus security and privacy while mourning.