On a cold night in February 2022, Christina Yuna Lee, a 35-year-old digital producer, was returning home to her apartment in New York City’s Chinatown after a night out at a club.
Unbeknownst to her, she was being followed by Assamad Nash, a 27-year-old man who had been lurking in the shadows.
This fateful encounter ended in tragedy, leading to Nash’s recent sentencing to 30 years in prison.
A Chilling Crime
As Lee entered her apartment building, Nash slipped in behind her before the door could close. Security footage captured him keeping a cautious distance as she made her way up six flights of stairs.
Once Lee reached her apartment door, Nash seized the moment, attacking her as she tried to enter.
Her neighbors were awakened at around 4:20 a.m. by her desperate screams for help, but by the time police arrived, Nash had barricaded himself inside the apartment, refusing to let them in.
A Harrowing Scene
Inside the apartment, the scene was horrific.
Nash had brutally stabbed Lee over 40 times, ultimately ending her life in the bathroom where she had tried to escape.
Police found Nash hiding under a mattress, and a bloodstained knife was discovered behind a dresser. The gruesome details of the attack shocked the community and left Lee’s family devastated.
Seeking Justice and Closure
During Nash’s court appearance, he was described as mentally ill, and the judge imposed the maximum sentence, stating that there were no medications that could protect society from him.
Lee’s father, Sungkon Lee, expressed his deep sorrow and anger, questioning why such a tragedy had befallen his family.
He also criticized the police response, alleging that officers took too long to enter the apartment and potentially save his daughter.
A Community in Mourning
Lee’s death has left a lasting impact on her family, friends, and the entire community. District Attorney Alvin Bragg highlighted the profound loss and the senseless nature of the crime.
Lee was remembered as a kind and hardworking individual who always treated others with warmth and kindness. Her family’s grief is compounded by the belief that more could have been done to prevent this tragedy.
Now, as they seek justice and answers, the Lees are determined to hold those responsible accountable and ensure that such a horrific event does not happen again.