When Was Yale Student Murdered? Case Details

The murder of Yale student Annie Le occurred on September 8, 2009. Annie Le, a 24-year-old graduate student at Yale University, was found dead in the basement of the Amistad Street building where she worked. The incident sent shockwaves through the academic community and raised concerns about campus safety.
Background and Investigation

Annie Le was a doctoral student in pharmacology at Yale University. She was last seen entering the Amistad Street building on September 8, 2009. When she failed to return home, her family and friends reported her missing, triggering a massive search effort. The investigation that followed involved local and federal authorities, including the New Haven Police Department and the FBI.
The police investigation revealed that Annie Le's body was found hidden behind a wall in the basement of the building. Autopsy reports indicated that she died from traumatic asphyxia, caused by a combination of strangulation and blunt force trauma. The evidence collected from the crime scene included DNA samples, fingerprints, and security footage, which were crucial in identifying the suspect.
Suspect Identification and Trial
After analyzing the evidence, the police identified Raymond Clark III, a 24-year-old laboratory technician who worked at the Amistad Street building, as the primary suspect. Clark was arrested on September 17, 2009, and charged with murder. During the trial, prosecutors presented forensic evidence, including DNA samples found on Annie Le’s clothing and under her fingernails, which matched Clark’s DNA.
The trial revealed that Clark and Annie Le had a professional relationship, with Clark working as a technician in the laboratory where Annie Le conducted her research. However, the exact nature of their interactions and the motive behind the murder were not fully established during the trial. Clark pleaded not guilty, but the jury found him guilty of murder and attempted sexual assault. He was sentenced to 44 years in prison without the possibility of parole.
Investigation Details | Findings |
---|---|
Date of Murder | September 8, 2009 |
Location of Crime | Amistad Street building, Yale University |
Cause of Death | Traumatic asphyxia due to strangulation and blunt force trauma |
Suspect Identification | Raymond Clark III, laboratory technician |

The Annie Le case led to a significant overhaul of Yale University's safety policies and procedures. The university implemented new security measures, including increased surveillance and emergency response protocols. The case also raised awareness about the importance of addressing workplace violence and promoting a safe and respectful environment for students and staff.
What was the cause of Annie Le's death?
+Annie Le's death was caused by traumatic asphyxia due to strangulation and blunt force trauma.
Who was the suspect in the Annie Le murder case?
+Raymond Clark III, a laboratory technician at Yale University, was identified as the primary suspect and later convicted of Annie Le's murder.
What were the consequences for the suspect?
+Raymond Clark III was sentenced to 44 years in prison without the possibility of parole for the murder of Annie Le.
The Annie Le case serves as a reminder of the importance of prioritizing campus safety and promoting a culture of respect and inclusivity. By learning from this tragic event, universities and institutions can work towards creating a safer and more supportive environment for students and staff.