In a shocking and tragic case that has gripped Los Angeles, a pregnant model was found murdered, dismembered, and stuffed into her refrigerator after a brief five-day relationship with a man described as “obsessive.” The victim, 31-year-old Melissa Mooney, was discovered in her upscale apartment, leading to the arrest of 43-year-old Magnus Humphrey, a man with a violent criminal history.
Melissa, an aspiring model and part-time real estate agent, was reportedly introduced to Humphrey through a mutual friend while he was visiting Los Angeles. Their whirlwind romance quickly escalated, with the couple spending nearly every hour together. However, the relationship took a dark turn when Humphrey became increasingly possessive and demanding, often referring to Melissa as “his girl” despite their short time together.
According to prosecutors, tensions flared when Melissa, who also worked as an escort, sought payment for her time. She attempted to navigate the complexities of their relationship, expressing frustration to a friend about Humphrey’s unwillingness to contribute financially. The situation escalated when she last contacted him on September 7, 2023, sending links to household items she needed for her new apartment.
Surveillance footage captured Melissa entering her building on September 6, but after her last communication, she vanished without a trace. Concerned family members requested a welfare check, but initial police visits yielded no signs of foul play. It wasn’t until Melissa’s mother insisted that authorities enter her apartment that the gruesome discovery was made.
Upon entering the residence, police were immediately struck by the sight of perishable items strewn across the counter, which raised suspicions. However, it was the horrifying scene inside the refrigerator that would haunt the responding officers. They found Melissa’s dismembered body concealed within, bound and gagged with her own clothing. The brutality of the crime suggested a prolonged and torturous death, leading investigators to believe that she had suffered before her murder.
Further complicating the case, the autopsy revealed that Melissa was approximately two months pregnant at the time of her death, adding another layer of tragedy to an already heartbreaking situation. Humphrey’s DNA was found on her body, linking him directly to the crime, but his defense claims that the evidence is circumstantial and lacks proof of premeditation.
Magnus Humphrey, who has pleaded not guilty to charges of murder and torture, has a history of violence against women, with a former girlfriend alleging he abused her similarly. As the case unfolds, prosecutors are building their argument around the parallels between the two alleged assaults and the violent nature of Melissa’s murder.
As of October 16, 2025, a judge has ruled there is sufficient evidence for Magnus to face trial. He remains incarcerated without bail, and authorities have not ruled out the possibility of pursuing the death penalty. The trial is expected to shed light on the shocking events that led to Melissa’s tragic death, as her family continues to seek justice for their beloved daughter and sister.
