By Jason Cruz
Northwest Asian Weekly
Christy Phu
A pair of Nike Air Jordans may have been the reason that 24-year-old Si Phu reportedly killed his 14-year-old niece Christy Phu. Si Phu was arrested by the Seattle Police Department on Tuesday after leaving the scene on Sunday.
According to Christy Phu’s father, Si Phu’s brother, she texted him indicating that her uncle was threatening her with a gun. There reportedly was an argument in Christy’s home in her room on Sunday afternoon. While her father was away from their home, Si Phu argued with the high school freshman over a pair of Nike Air Jordan shoes. According to multiple reports, Si wanted to sell the shoes. Air Jordans are of high value for sneaker collectors. Some editions of the shoes, named after the retired basketball player, could draw several hundred dollars to over $1,000.
A woman called Seattle Police reporting a shooting in the 3500 block of South Brandon Street in Columbia City. Christy Phu died a short time later at the scene, according to police reports. Although police could not confirm the reports of why Si Phu allegedly shot Christy Phu, indications point to the fight over the shoes.
Si Phu
Si Phu had been convicted of cyberstalking-domestic violence earlier this year.
Court documents state that he threatened to kill his ex-girlfriend and 5-year-old son. The records indicate he carried a handgun.
Christy Phu was a freshman at West Seattle’s Chief Sealth High School. A statement released by Chief Sealth’s principal Aida Fraser-Hammer states: “It is with great sadness and a heavy heart that I share the tragic news that one of our students was the victim of a fatal shooting.” Friends described her as an encouraging, smiling teen who was protective and supportive of her friends.
Si Phu was arrested in the South Seattle area Tuesday morning and will be booked into the King County Jail for investigation of homicide. (end)
Jason Cruz can be reached at info@nwasianweekly.com.