LOS ANGELES – Police Monday were investigating the deaths of two models who were found in their downtown Los Angeles apartments less than a mile from each other and two days apart.
Maleesa Mooney, 31, was found dead in her apartment in the 200 block of South Figuerora Street around 3:55 p.m. Tuesday. Police said she had been killed, but the cause of death was unknown pending an autopsy.
Nichole Coats was found dead inside her apartment in the 700 block of Grand Avenue on Sept. 10. Police were conducting a welfare check on Coats, 32, at around 10 a.m., but no one responded at her apartment. About two hours later, police were called and someone reported finding a body at the home.
Her cause of death was also under investigation.
“Nikki’s vibrant personality was one that touched and affected everyone she crossed paths with. She is known as an amazing daughter, friend and soul. Her untimely passing has left us shocked,” a GoFundMe page created for Coats to help with funeral expenses says.
Authorities have not indicated the two cases are related.
Mooney was the sister of Guyanese pop singer Jourdin Pauline, who posted a tribute to her sibling on Instagram last week.
“My heart is crushed, I can’t believe you won’t be here with us anymore. You were so loving and so kind to everyone. You made sure if you ate everyone around you was too. You opened your arms to people who didn’t deserve you as a friend. You’re the best thing to happen to almost everyone’s lives you touched!!!”
She added, “The reason I’m me is because of you!!! … My first best friend the one who taught me everything I know!!!!! How is this even possible you won’t be here. … This feels so surreal. I keep waking up crying thinking I’m in a bad dream. We will get justice for you my sister. I promise you won’t be gone in vain!!!”
Police asked anyone with information about the deaths to call Detective Pierce or Marcinek, Los Angeles Police Department, Central Bureau Homicide, at 213-996-4150. During non-business hours or on weekends, calls should be directed to 877-LAPD-24-7. Anyone wishing to remain anonymous can call the L.A. Regional Crime Stoppers at 800-222-TIPS or go to lacrimestoppers.org.
