Police arrested Stephen Morgan, 29, for the May 6 murder of a 21-year-old Wesleyan University student in which he shot the student at the university bookstore. Morgan was arrested May 7.
According to the New York Times, Morgan had a journal filled with references of killing Jewish people and Johanna Justin-Jinich, a Wesleyan junior whom herself was half-Jewish. Morgan and Justin-Jinich had been classmates at New York University in 2007. Per the New York Times, the pair had been friendly until Justin-Jinich complained to the university of harassment after Morgan repeatedly sent her threatening and insulting E-mails.
Authorities are not sure whether or not the two had any contact or what prompted Morgan to hunt down the victim two years later. Additionally, police are unsure how Morgan knew Justin-Jinich was at the bookstore.
Morgan’s bail was raised to $15 million from $10 million due to the fact that he wore a disguise – eyeglasses and a wig – and the threat he posed to the community.
According to the news source, Morgan’s father said that he was aware that his son kept a journal filled with anti-Jewish comments. Additionally, he described his son as a quiet loner who didn’t have many friends.
Morgan’s lawyer said his client would plead not guilty at the next hearing.
After the shooting, university officials warned students not to go outside because of Morgan’s journal threats. Some students left town.
Students held a vigil for Justin-Jinich on May 8.
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