A San Marino man is facing the possibility of life behind bars after he was arrested in connection with the murder of his wife, whose body was found in their burning home earlier this year.
Yoon Lai, 62, is facing a charge for murder and arson in connection with the Jan. 6 death of his wife, Irene Gaw-Lai, 56. The District Attorney’s office said the suspect killed his wife, then tried to cover up the crime by setting their home on the 2600 block of Lorain Road on fire.
At the time, Lai called 911 to report the blaze. Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department Lt. Steve DeJong said the man claimed he’d taken his sons to baseball practice then noticed the house on fire upon his return.
A possible motive for the murder was not revealed.
“The violent death of Dr. Irene Gaw-Lai is heartbreaking and deeply disturbing,” District Attorney Nathan Hochman said in a statement. “She was not only a respected physician and business leader, but a mother who deserved safety and dignity in her own home. We will not rest until the person responsible for this senseless tragedy is held fully accountable.”
Lai pleaded not guilty to the charges in his arraignment on Tuesday. He is being held on $2.2 million bail.