A Los Angeles-based freelance model, Maleesa Mooney, was found dead in her apartment last month, with her ankles and wrists bound and signs of severe beating, according to an autopsy report released on Friday. Mooney, 31, also worked as a real estate agent and was last seen alive on surveillance footage on September 6. Her family became concerned when they were unable to reach her for more than 24 hours and called the Los Angeles Police Department to perform a welfare check on September 10. Despite an officer’s visit, no contact was made with Mooney. Two days later, when building management allowed the police into her apartment, they found her lifeless body wedged inside a refrigerator, with a gag made of clothing in her mouth and electrical cords and clothing used to bind her extremities.
The medical examiner’s report revealed that Mooney died from blunt force trauma, with injuries concentrated around her head and body. One of her ribs was also fractured. The report suggests that she was likely involved in a violent physical altercation prior to her death, and suffocation may have played a role as well. Cocaine was found in her system post-mortem, although the role of drugs in her death remains uncertain. The manner of her death was listed as “homicidal violence.” No arrests have been made, and no suspects have been publicly identified.
Mooney’s family and friends are devastated by the loss, describing her as an amazing, kind-hearted, and funny person. She was known for her cooking skills and her success as a real estate agent. Her sister, Jourdin Pauline, has pleaded for justice on social media and vowed to ensure that her sister’s death does not go in vain.
The Los Angeles Police Department is currently investigating the case, and anyone with information is urged to come forward. The shocking nature of Mooney’s murder has sent shockwaves through the community, and there is a growing demand for answers. As the investigation continues, friends and family are left to mourn the loss of a beloved sister and friend.
