Full Breakdown
Inglewood Man Charged with Murders Linked to Dating App Encounters
9/10/2025, 3:23:17 AM
Overview of the Case
Rockim Prowell, a 34-year-old man from Inglewood, California, has been charged with two counts of murder and one count of attempted murder, stemming from a series of violent incidents involving victims he met through an online dating app. The charges, announced by the Los Angeles County District Attorney's Office, also include multiple counts of carjacking, second-degree burglary, and assault with a deadly weapon. Prowell is currently being held without bail and is scheduled for arraignment on October 16, 2025.
Timeline of Events
- July 20, 2021: Prowell allegedly met 51-year-old Miguel Angel King through an online dating app, fatally shooting him and stealing his car. King's remains were discovered in the Angeles National Forest on August 14, 2021.
- August 21, 2023: Prowell met 53-year-old Robert Gutierrez, who was reported missing two days later. Gutierrez's body has not been found, but his vehicle was located in Prowell's garage upon his arrest.
- February 22, 2025: Prowell connected with a 40-year-old man through the same dating app. After binding and beating the victim with a baseball bat, Prowell chased him in a vehicle, running him over and breaking his leg.
Details of the Allegations
Prosecutors allege that Prowell's actions were premeditated and predatory. In the case of Miguel Angel King, forensic evidence linked Prowell to the crime through the recovery of King's stolen vehicle. The remains of King were found weeks after the murder, indicating a violent and calculated act. In the case of Robert Gutierrez, while his body remains missing, evidence found in Prowell's garage has connected him to Gutierrez's disappearance.
The third victim managed to escape after being assaulted, highlighting the violent nature of Prowell's attacks. District Attorney Nathan Hochman described these incidents as "inexplicable" acts of violence that demonstrated a "total disregard of life."
Criminal Background
Prowell has a prior criminal history, including multiple arrests for burglaries in the Beverly Hills and Los Angeles areas between 2019 and 2021. At the time of the alleged murders, he was on probation for these earlier offenses. His history of violent crime raises concerns about his potential for further predatory behavior.
Official Statements
District Attorney Nathan Hochman stated, “Imagine the terror and horror these victims felt after being duped into believing they were meeting for one reason, only to face inexplicable violence. These were predatory acts that showed a total disregard of life.” He emphasized the diligent work of law enforcement in apprehending Prowell.
Potential Consequences
If convicted, Prowell faces severe penalties, including the possibility of the death penalty due to the special circumstance allegation of multiple murders. The decision to pursue capital punishment will be made by a committee within the district attorney's office at a later date.
Conclusion
The case against Rockim Prowell underscores the potential dangers associated with online dating platforms. As the legal proceedings unfold, the focus will remain on the implications of his alleged actions and the safety of individuals using such services.
