Following the recent deaths of two models in their downtown Los Angeles apartments, the LAPD said Tuesday its investigation has yielded “no evidence” to suggest the deaths are related.
Maleesa Mooney’s body was discovered in her apartment in the 200 block of South Figueroa Street, around 3:55 p.m. on Sept. 12.
The 31-year-old’s family was unable to make contact with her and notified authorities in the days leading up to the discovery.
While the LAPD has classified the case as a homicide, the exact cause of death is unknown.
The Los Angeles County Department of Medical Examiner-Coroner performed an autopsy and marked Mooney’s cause of death as “deferred,” pending additional tests.
A second woman named Nichole Coats was found dead inside her apartment on Grand Avenue two days earlier, on Sept. 10. Police initiated a welfare check at the 32-year-old model’s residence around 10 a.m., but received no response.
About two hours later, authorities were alerted to the discovery of a body at her home. Similar to Mooney’s case, the coroner has listed the cause of Coats’ death as “deferred.”
“Since both cases remain active investigations, details about either case will not be released,” the LAPD said in a statement on Sept. 19. “However, based on the investigations thus far, there is no evidence to suggest that the deaths of Ms. Coats and Ms. Mooney are related to one another.”
A GoFundMe page for Coats has since been created to assist with funeral expenses. The page states, “Nikki’s vibrant personality was one that touched and affected everyone she crossed paths with. She is known as an amazing daughter, friend, and soul. Her untimely passing has left us shocked.”
Maleesa Mooney’s sister, Guyanese pop singer Jourdin Pauline, took to Instagram to express her grief. “My heart is crushed, I can’t believe you won’t be here with us anymore,” she wrote. “We will get justice for you, my sister. I promise you won’t be gone in vain!!!”
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