Chinese National Accused of Poisoning Colleague at University of Wyoming Arrested While Fleeing to China

A Chinese national and graduate student at the University of Wyoming has been arrested on accusations of poisoning a colleague and was apprehended while attempting to flee the country. Aili Wang, 32, was taken into custody at Los Angeles International Airport.

Campus police questioned Wang on October 5 after surveillance cameras, installed by a coworker experiencing medical issues, allegedly captured her manipulating his mug and pouring liquid into it from her own cup on October 1. The coworker, whose identity has not been released, specialized in disease treatment technology, research similar to Wang's background in China. According to an affidavit, Wang was also observed on camera taking photos and manipulating notebooks in the victim's workspace.

The substance used in the alleged poisoning was identified as acrylamide, a chemical that can lead to serious health problems, including cancer, according to the American Cancer Society. Authorities stated that Wang purchased the chemical via eBay, and it was identified after the victim's wife tested water from his coffee maker. When questioned by police, Wang reportedly claimed she had not used acrylamide in years.

When Wang was arrested, she was in possession of multiple laptops, external digital storage devices, and written materials. Prosecutors requested her bond be increased from $200,000 to $1.5 million cash-only, citing concerns she was attempting to flee to China. Her current bond has been set at the higher amount.

The victim's research, which was federally funded, focused on new technology for cancer, neurological, and genetic disease treatment. The affidavit indicated Wang had no legitimate reason to access the victim's desk.

Mark Gomelsky, a microbiology professor at the University of Wyoming who supervised both students, described the situation as "horrifying and surreal." He told the Associated Press that the victim, a student from Vietnam, began experiencing extreme fatigue and insomnia after attending a conference in August. Gomelsky noted that acrylamide is a neurotoxin that can cause lasting damage to neurons, and it is uncertain if the victim will fully recover.

Gomelsky also stated that Wang had not performed lab work since June due to her dissertation. She did not pass her first dissertation defense and was reportedly envious of her colleague's achievements.

Wang faces charges of aggravated assault and battery in Wyoming, which carries a maximum sentence of 10 years in prison and a $10,000 fine.

A University of Wyoming spokesman relayed a statement from President Shane Reeves, asserting that the university takes the health and safety of its community seriously and is committed to providing a secure environment.