Malden Man Accused of Attempted Murder

A Malden man is accused of attempted murder after allegedly strangling a woman, according to police.

At 9:33 p.m. Jan. 23, police responded to 50 Dexter St. for a report of a domestic assault. William Wongchang, 38, of 50 Dexter St., Malden, was arrested and charged with attempted murder, assault and battery and threatening to commit a crime.

A 26-year-old woman from another country, who was dating Wongchang at the time, was supposed to be staying with the alleged for a couple of weeks, according to Det. Lt. Marc Gatcomb.

"When she was here, he (allegedly) started being physically aggressive which culminated in this arrest," Gatcomb said, adding that the incident occurred inside Wongchang's home.

Wongchang allegedly choked the woman, according to Police Chief Kevin Molis. At one point, Wongchang allegedly took a pillow and tried to smother the woman but she was able to break free, added Gatcomb.

"The actions (of Wongchang) fit the mold" of attempted murder which is why police charged him the crime, said Gatcomb.

Police declined to provide additional details related to the case, but Molis did say the alleged attack "wasn't random...because (Wongchang) knew the victim."