A man is facing allegations of killing a pregnant model who was discovered bound and silenced in her refrigerator, following a brief but intense relationship. Magnus Humphrey, aged 43, and Maleesa Mooney, aged 31, were romantically involved for just five days before her tragic demise in September 2023, introduced by Humphrey’s estranged brother.
During a court hearing in Los Angeles, the victim’s friend, Kiersten Dossett, revealed that Humphrey exhibited obsessive behavior towards Maleesa, often referring to her possessively as “his girl” or “his woman.” Dossett testified that the pair were inseparable in the days leading up to the incident, with Humphrey expressing intentions of marrying Maleesa.
Maleesa Mooney, who was two months pregnant at the time of her discovery, was found deceased in her refrigerator, her body bound with electrical cords and fabric from a cheetah-print dress. Testimonies and forensic evidence presented in court indicated signs of physical abuse, including hair removal, bruises, and foreign objects inserted into her mouth.
The medical examiner determined the cause of death as “homicidal violence,” potentially due to asphyxiation, with uncertainty regarding Maleesa’s state when placed in the refrigerator. The Deputy District Attorney described the murder as a premeditated act of violence, hinting at a possible financial dispute as a motive.
Despite DNA and video evidence linking Humphrey to the crime scene and intimate relations with the victim, his defense attorney argued against his involvement in the murder. Claiming Humphrey’s deep affection and discussions of marriage with Maleesa, the defense maintained innocence, though the court ruled there was sufficient evidence to proceed to trial for torture and murder charges.
Humphrey faces the possibility of the death penalty, pending a decision by the district attorney’s office on whether to pursue capital punishment.