Security cameras at an Encino strip mall have captured disturbing footage that appears to show a man disposing of a large object in a dumpster, where a headless woman’s body was later discovered by a homeless man. The man in question is identified as Sam Haskell IV, a 35-year-old Hollywood “#richkid” whose wife and in-laws have been reported missing. Haskell is scheduled to appear in court on Monday to face charges related to the discovery of the woman’s torso in a dumpster near his house.
In the days leading up to his arrest, Haskell’s TikTok account drew attention as commenters analyzed his strange videos discussing topics such as designer fashion, celebrities, and Asian cuisine. Under the pseudonyms Tragic Streetz and Samuel Basshinger, Haskell posted a series of selfie videos on TikTok and highly produced clips on Facebook. These videos, filled with random ramblings and references to infamous figures like Luka Magnotta, raised eyebrows among viewers.
The arrest took place at a mall in Canoga Park, where Haskell was apprehended by police just hours after a homeless man stumbled upon the headless body while searching through trash in a bank parking lot. Surveillance videos from the previous day show a thin man struggling to dispose of something in a dumpster in broad daylight. The suspicious behavior caught the attention of a passerby, who took pictures of the license plate and reported it to the police.
While the remains have not yet been officially identified, authorities believe they belong to Mei Haskell, Sam’s 37-year-old wife, who has been missing for several days. Mei’s parents, who also lived with the couple, are also unaccounted for. The Haskell children have been taken from their Tarzana home, which is now considered a crime scene.
Police had 48 hours to bring Haskell before a judge for formal charges, but the observance of Veterans Day in Los Angeles delayed the process. This delay did not deter investigators, who had visited Haskell’s home twice before the arrest. During the second visit, blood and other evidence were found, leading to his apprehension.
Sam Haskell IV comes from a well-known Hollywood family, with his father being a prominent talent agent and Emmy-winning producer. His father’s career also involved controversies, such as leaked emails that revealed disparaging remarks about former Miss America winners. The younger Haskell, known for his extravagant lifestyle, maintained an Instagram account under the hashtag #richkids.
The suspect’s mother, Mary Donnelly Haskell, is a former beauty queen and actress, having held the title of Miss Mississippi in 1977.
Sam Haskell IV is expected to appear in court on Monday, where he will face charges related to his wife’s disappearance and the discovery of the headless body. The investigation into this shocking case continues, with authorities working to uncover the truth behind these tragic events.
