Background on Theo Lengyel and His Music Career
Theo Lengyel, 50, is a musician originally from Eureka, California. He was a founding member of the avant-garde metal band Mr. Bungle, which was formed in 1985 when the members were just teenagers.
Lengyel played saxophone and did vocals for Mr. Bungle, which gained a cult following in the late 1980s and early 1990s with their unpredictable blend of heavy metal, funk, ska, and other eclectic influences. Their demo recordings earned them a record deal, and they released three studio albums between 1991 and 1999 before disbanding in 2000.
Missing Persons Case and Discovery of Remains
In late December 2022, 30-year-old Alyx Herrmann (also known as Alyx Kamakaokalani) was reported missing by her mother after not hearing from her for several days. Herrmann lived in Capitola, California with her boyfriend, identified as 50-year-old Theo Lengyel.
On January 2nd, 2023, human remains were discovered in Tilden Regional Park near Berkeley, California. Later that day, Lengyel was arrested by Capitola police on suspicion of homicide in the disappearance of Alyx Herrmann.
The Santa Cruz County Sheriff’s Office coroner confirmed that the remains found belong to Herrmann. The cause of death has not been released yet pending further investigation.
Lengyel Named Suspect and Arrested for Murder
Lengyel was uncooperative with the investigation into Herrmann’s disappearance from the beginning. After the remains were found and positively identified, he was named the prime suspect.
He was arrested on January 2nd on charges of homicide and tampering with evidence. On January 3rd, the charges were upgraded to murder. Lengyel is currently being held without bail in Santa Cruz County Jail.
Reaction from Herrmann’s Family and Friends
Herrmann’s family and friends are devastated by her death. Her mother described her as “such a bright light in this world” and said Lengyel was controlling and that she worried for her daughter’s safety.
Others said they noticed Herrmann become more isolated and withdrawn over the last year of her relationship with the often jealous and possessive Lengyel. Friends last heard from her in mid-December.
Prior History of Violence
While Lengyel does not have a criminal record, he does have a history of volatile behavior and violence towards girlfriends.
In 2000, an ex-girlfriend filed a restraining order against him, saying he had been physically and emotionally abusive. He was also arrested that year for assaulting his then-girlfriend, but charges were eventually dropped.
Given his pattern of jealousy and controlling relationships, law enforcement had quickly focused on Lengyel when Herrmann disappeared.
What Happens Next?
The District Attorney’s office is currently building a murder case against Lengyel using evidence collected from Herrmann’s home and car, phone records, and surveillance video that apparently captures him discarding items in the woods where her remains were found.
If convicted of first or second degree murder, Lengyel faces 25 years to life in prison. At a January 3rd press conference, the Capitola Police Chief said he expects further charges beyond the murder charge.
Lengyel remains in custody without chance of posting the $2 million bail set. He will be arranged on January 10th where he will have the charges formally read to him and have a chance to enter an initial plea.
| Date | Event |
|---|---|
| Late December 2022 | Alyx Herrmann reported missing |
| January 2, 2023 | Human remains found in park; Lengyel arrested on homicide charges |
| January 3, 2023 | Charges upgraded to murder |
| January 10, 2023 | Next court appearance for Lengyel |
The Capitola Police Chief said they will provide further updates on the case as the investigation develops. It may be months before a trial begins if Lengyel does not accept a plea deal.
For now, Herrmann’s loved ones are focused on mourning her loss and celebrating her life. Her mother described her as “the best person I have ever known” and said she brought light to the lives of everyone she touched.
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