University of North Carolina-chapel hill graduate student charged with murder on Tuesday morning for shooting and killing faculty member.
According to UNC Police, Tailei Qi has been charged with first-degree murder and having a weapon on school grounds, both felonies. Zijie Yan, an associate professor at the Department of Applied Physical Sciences, was named as the victim by the authorities. In Yan’s research team, Qi is listed as a graduate student.
The university is in touch with Yan’s family and is offering tools and support, according to a statement from the police.
In a news conference conducted on Tuesday afternnon, UNC Police Chief Brian James stated that Qi is presently being held without bail at the Orange County Jail and may face further charges as the investigation progresses.
Investigators found that Qi and Yan were acquainted, but James said they are still “exploring” the two men’s relationship.
To identify a clear reason at this time would be premature.
James noted that although Qi’s car was found on campus and seized, the gun used in the incident has not yet been located.
As the inquiry goes on, the campus’ Caudill Labs building will stay shuttered, according to James. The FBI is supporting the inquiry.
Yan was honored by UNC chancellor Kevin Guskiewicz as a “beloved colleague, mentor, and father of two.”