Overview / Background
On May 23, 2014, Elliot Rodger carried out a coordinated multi-stage attack in Isla Vista, California, killing six people and injuring multiple others. The attack involved stabbings, shootings, and vehicle assaults across several locations within a short time frame.
- Weihan “David” Wang
- One of three victims killed inside an apartment during the initial phase of the attack. Cheng Yuan “James” Hong
- Victim killed alongside others inside the residence. George Chen
- Third victim killed in the apartment during the early stage of the incident. Veronika Weiss
- Victim shot outside a sorority house during the attack. Katherine “Katie” Cooper
- Victim killed in the same shooting outside the sorority residence. Christopher “Chris” Ross Michaels-Martinez
- Victim shot near a local deli during the later phase of the attack.
Crime Scene
The attack began inside Rodger’s apartment, where three victims were stabbed. He then moved through the area in a vehicle, carrying out shootings and attempting further attacks at multiple locations, including outside a sorority house and along public streets.
Investigation
Investigators later recovered a detailed manifesto and video recordings outlining Rodger’s motivations and planned sequence of events. Evidence showed that he had legally obtained firearms, practiced using them, and carefully planned the attack. Digital records, purchases, and online activity demonstrated preparation over an extended period. Authorities reconstructed the timeline using surveillance, witness accounts, and forensic evidence across multiple scenes.