Arizona State University Business Professor Accused of Wife’s Murder Shocks Academic Community

An Arizona State University business professor has been arrested for allegedly murdering his wife, sending shockwaves through the academic community.

At a Glance

David Zhu, 47, an ASU business professor, was arrested for allegedly killing his wife in their Scottsdale home
The incident occurred on August 17, 2024, around 6:30 p.m., with Zhu’s wife dying from gunshot wounds
Zhu claims the shooting was accidental, but police found two spent shotgun shells at the scene
ASU has placed Zhu on administrative leave and barred him from campus
The couple’s children reported a history of domestic disputes between their parents

Tragic Incident Shakes ASU Community

On August 17, 2024, a horrific event unfolded in Scottsdale, Arizona, when David Zhu, a 47-year-old professor at Arizona State University’s W. P. Carey School of Business, allegedly shot and killed his wife, Susan Yijuan Yan. The incident occurred at their home near North 128th Way around 6:30 p.m., leaving the academic community in disbelief.

Scottsdale Police Department spokesperson Sgt. Allison Sempsis stated, “While this is still an ongoing investigation, there is no threat to the surrounding community, as this is an isolated incident.” The police found two spent shotgun shells and multiple firearms at the scene, raising questions about the circumstances of the shooting.

ASU professor charged in wife's murder in Scottsdale home. #azfamily https://t.co/DrKSvdOqNt

— David Caltabiano (@DavidCaltabiano) August 19, 2024

Professor’s Claims and Family History

Zhu, who has been employed by ASU since 2009 as a “Professor & Dean’s Council Distinguished Scholar” in the Department of Management and Entrepreneurship, claims the shooting was accidental. He told authorities, “I was trying to shoot the wall behind her.” However, court records paint a troubling picture of the family’s history.

“Neither child expressed any surprise that David has shot and killed their mother,” according to court documents, suggesting a pattern of domestic disputes.

The couple’s 19-year-old daughter and 14-year-old son were present during the incident. One of the children ran to a neighbor to call 911, while Zhu also called emergency services, claiming the shooting was accidental.

A man who is identified as an ASU professor shot and killed his wife in Scottsdale on Saturday night, the police department said. https://t.co/gSmv5waROP

— KTVU (@KTVU) August 19, 2024

University Response and Student Reactions

Arizona State University has taken swift action in response to the allegations against Professor Zhu. A university spokesperson stated, “Our condolences go out to all those affected by this tragedy.” ASU has placed Zhu on administrative leave and barred him from campus and all university activities while the personnel process proceeds.

The incident has left students and faculty grappling with shock and disbelief. One student remarked, “That’s … that’s shocking,” while another added, “I would have never expected that. That’s kind of scary.” The university community is struggling to reconcile the image of a respected academic with the serious allegations he now faces.

Legal Proceedings and Ongoing Investigation

Zhu has been booked into a Maricopa County jail on suspicion of one count of first-degree murder. He is being held on a $1 million cash bond. The Scottsdale Police Department continues to investigate the incident, stating, “We don’t have any additional information to provide on this tragedy right now.”

As the legal process unfolds, the academic community and the public at large are left to grapple with the devastating impact of domestic violence. This tragic event serves as a stark reminder of the importance of recognizing and addressing signs of domestic abuse, even within seemingly successful and respected families.