A Chinese graduate student studying microbiology in Wyoming has been taken into custody on suspicion of poisoning a fellow student’s tea, who held pending patents, and attempting to leave the country after being questioned by authorities. Aili Wang, 32, was apprehended at Los Angeles International Airport on October 6, allegedly attempting to fly back to China. She was found in possession of multiple electronic devices and documents seized by the police.
Surveillance footage showed Wang searching through the victim’s desk, who was engaged in technology research for disease treatment, a field similar to Wang’s previous work in China. Wang is currently being held without bail in Los Angeles. The alleged poisoning was initially discovered when the victim’s wife and others detected a suspicious substance in the water from the coffee maker used to brew tea.
The overseeing microbiology professor, Mark Gomelsky, expressed shock at the accusations and uncertainty regarding the victim’s recovery. Wang, who had no legal representation listed, was unreachable for comment. The police investigation began after the victim, identified as K.T., started experiencing symptoms, leading to the discovery of acrylamide in the coffee maker’s water. Surveillance cameras were set up in the shared office space of K.T. and Wang.
Wang, who did not share research interests with the victim, was captured on camera going through his desk and manipulating items. It was reported that Wang had purchased acrylamide online and had a history of conflict with the victim. Gomelsky mentioned that Wang envied the success of the victim and had failed to defend her dissertation initially. The victim’s health deteriorated after attending a conference, displaying symptoms consistent with acrylamide poisoning.
The discovery of acrylamide in the coffee maker raised suspicions, leading to further investigation by university authorities. Tak Sumaya, an assisting professor, expressed concern over the quantity of acrylamide found. The victim, who was working on a cancer therapy method, continues to suffer from poisoning symptoms, including neurological issues. Wang faces serious charges in Wyoming and her extradition process is underway with a significantly increased bond requirement.
