Full Breakdown
Fatal Stabbing of University of Washington Student at Nordheim Court Apartments
5/12/2026, 9:01:56 AM
Core Event
On Sunday night, May 10, 2026, a 19-year-old University of Washington student, identified as a transgender woman, was found dead from multiple stab wounds in the laundry room of Building 7 at Nordheim Court Apartments (5000 25th Ave NE, Seattle). Seattle Police and Fire responded at about 10:10 p.m., attempted resuscitation, and pronounced the victim deceased. The suspect, described as a Black male, 25-30 years old, 5 ft 6-5 ft 8, with a beard, wearing a dark-blue vest, button-up shirt and blue jeans, fled the scene.
Timeline
- 10:10 p.m.: Police and fire arrive; victim discovered.
- 10:40 p.m.: UW Alert orders residents to stay indoors.
- 12:56 a.m.: Shelter-in-place lifted; tip line (206-233-5000) active.
Key Figures & Official Responses
Detective Eric Muñoz (SPD) called the suspect “armed and dangerous” and asked for tips. UW President Robert J. Jones expressed deep sympathy and noted concern for LGBTQ IA+ students. UW spokesperson Victor Balta said the university will respect the family’s privacy while coordinating counseling with Greystar. City Councilmember Maritza Rivera said she will meet UW officials on safety.
Data & Context
Nordheim Court provides 454 units for UW students. The suspect description is consistent across all reports. UW enrolls roughly 36,000 undergraduates. The Seattle Police Violent Crimes Tip Line is 206-233-5000.
Impact & Criticism
The killing has raised security concerns for off-campus housing, especially laundry-room access. Students reported a broken lock and poor lighting. Community member Debbie Delatorre called for greater accountability from UW and Greystar.
On-the-Ground Accounts
Audrey, a freshman architecture major, called the incident “so heartbreaking” and questioned the laundry-room lock. Graduate student Joelle Dlugozima said she secured her door with a chair and noted dark stairways.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
The victim’s name is withheld pending family notification. No motive has been identified, and investigators have not confirmed whether the suspect is a student. Information on prior security issues at the complex is limited.
Verbatim Quotes
- “This individual just committed a homicide; they should be considered armed and dangerous,” — Eric Muñoz, Seattle Police Detective
- “I want to express my deepest sympathies and condolences to the family and loved ones of the UW student who was killed late last night. There are no words that can express the profound loss of a student. While investigators have not yet identified a suspect or a motive, I want to recognize that when violence affects a trans person it can be especially worrying to our LGBTQIA+ community members. Our Division of Student Life is reaching out to students affected and providing support and resources to help them through this very difficult ordeal. We are grateful to the Seattle Police Department homicide division for leading the investigation as they work to find the person responsible for this horrendous crime.” — Robert J. Jones, UW President
- “As a mom, my heart aches for her family and friends,” — Maritza Rivera, City Councilmember
- “For me, thinking about it happening on Mother’s Day and that girl is someone’s baby — her mom had to get that news — is so heartbreaking,” — Audrey, UW freshman
What’s Next
SPD is reviewing surveillance footage and seeks tips via 206-233-5000. UW will keep counseling services active and is reviewing security at Nordheim Court with Greystar. The King County Medical Examiner will release the victim’s identity when ready.
