Azusa, California – An 81-year-old man, Prince King, who was recently arrested for allegedly terrorizing his neighbors in California using a slingshot, has passed away after being released from jail. The Los Angeles County Department of Medical Examiner confirmed his death at a private residence, with the cause of death remaining unknown.
King had been taken into custody last week and faced seven counts of vandalism dating back to October 2021, pleading not guilty during a court appearance. Despite being released on his own recognizance, a judge ordered him to stay away from his home in Azusa and refrain from contacting the alleged victims. Additionally, he was prohibited from possessing any deadly weapons, including a slingshot.
In recent years, neighbors had been on edge as King allegedly used metal ball bearings to cause damage to property, including breaking windows and car windshields. Authorities discovered ball bearings and a slingshot at his residence after serving a search warrant. Police reported that the projectiles were launched from King’s backyard as well as from a nearby neighborhood.
Azusa police lieutenant Jake Bushey revealed that the incidents had been ongoing for years before the suspect was identified, highlighting the difficulty in determining a motive for the crimes. Despite King’s attorneys citing his medical ailments during a hearing, he had left jail to pick up medications, with a scheduled court appearance for a preliminary hearing set for June 17.
The circumstances surrounding Prince King’s activities have left authorities and neighbors puzzled, with the motive for his actions remaining unclear. With his passing, the case takes on a new dimension, leaving many questions unanswered as the investigation continues. The community in Azusa is left grappling with the aftermath of this bizarre and alarming situation, trying to make sense of the events that transpired.