Nicholas Myklebust, a 44-year-old associate professor in the English Department at Regis University in Denver, Colorado, was arrested on Monday, July 29, 2024, for allegedly murdering his wife, Seorin Kim, and their infant daughter. The arrest followed a 911 call Myklebust placed around 7 a.m., reporting that he found his wife bleeding on the ground and their two-month-old daughter not breathing.
When emergency responders arrived at the couple’s home on North Syracuse Street, they found Kim suffering from severe blunt-force injuries to her face. She was transported to the hospital, where she later died. The infant daughter was pronounced dead at the scene with no visible injuries, according to a press release from the Denver Police Department.
During their investigation, detectives observed bruises and blood on Myklebust’s knuckles and scratches on his neck. These findings raised suspicions about his involvement in the incident. Myklebust claimed that his wife had fallen from a step ladder in the bathroom, but investigators found her injuries inconsistent with this explanation. The arrest affidavit stated that the victim’s injuries did not match those typically associated with a fall.
Investigators discovered a bloody glove in the trash and evidence of tampering with the crime scene. These findings led to suspicions of an attempted cover-up. Myklebust’s defense attorneys disputed these claims, requesting access to the crime scene for an independent investigation.
This incident is not the first tragedy for Myklebust. In 2021, another infant of the couple died due to a cranial fracture, while in his custody. No charges were filed at the time. This past incident has resurfaced as investigators review the current allegations against him.
Regis University expressed deep concern regarding the situation, offering condolences and sympathy to those affected. A university spokesperson emphasized this sentiment in a statement. To assist during this difficult time, the university provides support services for students, faculty, and staff through its Counseling Services and University Ministry.
Neighbors expressed their shock and concern over the incident, with one resident noting the unusual absence of the neighbor’s young daughter, which was particularly noticeable to her as a parent of two children. The neighbor observed Myklebust sitting outside with his head in his hands, leading her to suspect something terrible had occurred involving him or his family.
Another neighbor shared with the media that the incident hit too close to home, describing the scene where medics attended to Myklebust before being transported in a police vehicle, notably without handcuffs.
The Denver District Attorney’s Office is reviewing the evidence to determine formal charges against Myklebust, detained on a $5 million bond. The Office of the Medical Examiner is conducting autopsies on the victims to establish the cause and manner of death.
Authorities have urged anyone with information relevant to the case to contact Metro Denver Crime Stoppers at 720-913-7867 as the investigation continues.
