Student Accused of Poisoning Colleague with Neurotoxin

Aili Wang, a 32-year-old University of Wyoming student, faces charges after allegedly attempting to poison a coworker with a cancer-linked neurotoxin. Surveillance cameras captured Wang on October 1, 2026, rinsing the colleague's mug with a liquid identified as acrylamide. This chemical is known to cause health problems, including cancer, and acts as a neurotoxin.

Prosecutors allege Wang purchased the acrylamide online and was questioned by campus police on October 5, 2026. The day after her questioning, on October 6, 2026, Wang was arrested at Los Angeles International Airport. Authorities state she was attempting to flee the country and return to her native China.

The victim, a student from Vietnam specializing in disease treatment technology, began experiencing severe symptoms like extreme tiredness and an inability to sleep shortly after attending a conference in August. His wife discovered the possible poisoning by testing water from his coffee maker.

Wang's former professor described the situation as "horrifying and surreal," noting her envy of the victim's success. Wang was charged with aggravated assault and battery, facing up to 10 years in prison and a $10,000 fine. Her bond was significantly increased to $1.5 million cash-only.