Suspect in killing of UW student charged with murder, may have previously prowled campus

Key Points:

• Christopher Leahy, 31, has been charged with first-degree murder for the stabbing death of 19-year-old University of Washington student Juniper Blessing inside a campus-area laundry room on May 10, with prosecutors alleging premeditated intent and use of a knife.
• Investigators connected Leahy to the crime scene through fingerprint evidence and security footage, which was identified by Leahy’s brother, and believe he may also be linked to multiple prowling incidents near the university and in Seattle’s Ravenna neighborhood prior to the murder.
• Authorities stated there is no evidence to support that Blessing, who was transgender, was targeted due to gender identity, and no hate crime motivation has been found; the victim appears to have been chosen at random.
• Leahy surrendered to police with his parents after an attorney contacted authorities on his behalf, and if convicted, he faces 22 to 29 years in prison including enhancements for using a deadly weapon.
• Blessing’s family expressed gratitude to law enforcement and the community for their support, emphasizing Juniper’s loving spirit and the ongoing memorials from LGBTQIA2S+ and other communities; the investigation remains open.