Chinese student found dead in Los Angeles

Street outside the student apartment, July 24, 2014 [Source: The China Press]

A Chinese student has been found dead in a student apartment after being assaulted in Los Angeles.

Local police says the student from the University of Southern California was attacked by at least three individuals near the campus.

The attack occurred as the student was on his way back to the apartment.

The student was found dead on Thursday morning by a roommate.

Andy Neiman is the spokesman for the Los Angeles police Department.

"What we've learned thus far is that the victim was apparently walking home early this morning, about 12:45. Somewhere in the vicinity of 29th Street and Orchard Avenue, the victim was confronted and assaulted by at least three individuals. We don't have descriptions on those individuals."

Police says the victim had head injuries and the cause of death will be determined after an autopsy.

The university confirms the victim Ji Xinran, a 24-year-old graduate student from the School of Engineering.

The Chinese Consulate General in Los Angeles says they will now assist the victim's family in dealing with the aftermath of this tragedy.

Two Chinese students were shot to death near the USC campus in 2012.