STD Test Dispute Led to Fatal Stabbing

A Chicago student attending Goldsmiths University, Joshua Michals, has been convicted of murder in a London court. The conviction is related to the fatal stabbing of his girlfriend at their university accommodation, an incident which prosecutors argued demonstrated a calculated approach to the aftermath.

Story Highlights

Joshua Michals was convicted of the death of his girlfriend at a student accommodation in London.
The attack reportedly followed an argument concerning the victim’s request for Michals to take an STD test.
Evidence presented indicated that Michals called his father to request a lawyer before contacting emergency services for his victim.
Court proceedings highlighted troubling relationship dynamics consistent with coercive control patterns.

Incident and Aftermath

Joshua Michals, a student from a wealthy Chicago family, was convicted of murder following an incident at Goldsmiths University accommodation in London. The victim, his girlfriend, died after being stabbed multiple times. Court testimony indicated that the fatal argument occurred after the victim asked Michals to undergo STD testing.

A key point in the prosecution’s case focused on the defendant’s actions immediately following the attack. Evidence presented showed that Michals contacted his father, a millionaire, to arrange legal representation before calling emergency services. Prosecutors used this timeline to argue the defendant prioritized legal protection over providing immediate medical aid, demonstrating an awareness of criminal culpability.

JUST IN: A wealthy college student, Joshua Michals, is accused of stabbing and choking his girlfriend, 21-year-old Zhe Wang — then calling his dad to ask for a lawyer while she was bleeding out on the floor.

Prosecutors say she was still alive when neighbors heard her screams.… pic.twitter.com/4Fh7kzYDeI

— Tony Lane 🇺🇸 (@TonyLaneNV) December 8, 2025

Court and Context

During the court proceedings, evidence was introduced suggesting the relationship exhibited dynamics typical of coercive control. This included digital evidence and witness testimony describing patterns of jealousy, possessiveness, and controlling behavior that escalated following the victim’s request.

The judge’s remarks during sentencing addressed the violation of trust inherent in intimate partner homicide. Legal officials noted that prioritizing legal counsel over obtaining medical help for a victim can be interpreted by the court as a demonstration of emotional detachment and consciousness of guilt, which influences conviction and sentencing. The victim’s family described her as an ambitious student whose educational aspirations were ended by the violence.

The case has drawn attention to the issue of intimate partner violence in Britain, where Home Office data indicates approximately two women are killed weekly by current or former partners. It also prompted renewed discussions regarding the need for universities to strengthen domestic abuse awareness programs and early intervention systems for campus-based relationships.

Wealthy nepo baby called dad to ask for lawyer as his girlfriend lay dying after he stabbed and strangled her: court https://t.co/EiCEq4qVMJ pic.twitter.com/dSk5pDhBJp

— New York Post (@nypost) December 8, 2025