Chang Kang, a 23-year-old Korean resident of Texas, was tragically killed on October 7, 1986, while visiting Los Angeles. His death was part of a series of murders committed by Michael Player, infamously known as the "Skid Row Slayer." Player targeted individuals in the Skid Row area of Los Angeles, often choosing homeless victims due to their vulnerability and the low priority their cases received from law enforcement.
However, Chang Kang was not homeless; he was in Los Angeles to visit relatives when he was gunned down.
Michael Player's killing spree began in early September 1986 and lasted until his death by suicide on October 10, 1986. During this period, Player murdered ten people, including Chang Kang. Player's modus operandi involved shooting his victims in the back of the head, execution-style, often while they were asleep or otherwise unaware of his presence. This method was consistent across his attacks, making it difficult for the victims to defend themselves or for witnesses to intervene.
The investigation into Chang Kang's murder, along with the other killings, eventually led to the identification of Michael Player as the prime suspect. Player had a history of criminal activity, including theft, armed robbery, and illegal possession of firearms. Despite being questioned by police in connection with the murders, Player was initially released due to a lack of concrete evidence. It wasn't until a surviving victim provided a description of the assailant that the police had a solid lead.
On October 10, 1986, just three days after killing Chang Kang, Michael Player checked into a hotel under the alias "Marcus Nisby." He paid in cash and, after entering his room, took his own life by shooting himself. The discovery of his body and subsequent fingerprint analysis confirmed his identity and linked him to the series of murders. The case was officially closed in February 1987, with Player being posthumously identified as the Skid Row Slayer.
The tragic death of Chang Kang and the other victims highlighted the dangers faced by the homeless and transient populations in Los Angeles during that period. It also underscored the challenges law enforcement faced in tracking and apprehending a serial killer who preyed on society's most vulnerable members. The case remains a somber reminder of the need for vigilance and support for those living on the margins of society.
