Chinese National Arrested After Poisoning Classmate Engaged In Cutting Edge Cancer Research At US University

Authorities arrested a Chinese national studying at a U.S. university after she allegedly poisoned a rival classmate’s cup of tea and then attempted to flee the country.

Prosecutors allege that University of Wyoming microbiology graduate student Aili Wang, 32, was traveling back to China when she was arrested on Oct. 6 at the Los Angeles International Airport, the Associated Press reported Tuesday. At the time of her arrest Wang was in possession of laptops, electronic storage devices and unknown documents.

The victim, known by his initials “K.T.” was a Vietnamese national and an exceptional student who conducted federally-funded, patent-pending research regarding “new technology for cancer, neurological and genetic disease treatment,” alleges an affidavit obtained by the AP.

Wang faces a felony assault and battery charge. Although K.T. survived, he is still experiencing symptoms of the poisoning and it is unclear whether he will ever fully recover, the outlet reported.

“A University of Wyoming graduate student has been charged with aggravated assault in connection with allegations that she used a substance to harm a colleague in a UW laboratory. The charge was filed in Albany County Circuit Court last week, following a UW Police Department investigation,” the University of Wyoming said in a statement sent to the Daily Caller News Foundation.

“The UWPD’s findings were forwarded to the Albany County Attorney’s Office, which brought the charge. Separately, the university is following all normal processes in a student conduct proceeding. The university takes matters involving the health and safety of the campus community seriously and remains committed to providing a safe and secure environment for students, faculty, staff and visitors,” the statement added. “The university continues to assess information related to this matter and will take appropriate action as warranted to protect the campus community. The university is working with authorities and will respond to any additional information that may arise. These are only allegations, and individuals are presumed innocent pending trial or resulting conviction in any matter.”