A man in California is facing serious charges after allegedly using a dating app to lure and kill two men. Rockim Prowell, 34, has been accused by prosecutors of murdering Miguel Angel King, 51, in 2021 and Robert Gutierrez, 53, in 2023. Additionally, Prowell allegedly tortured another man earlier this year, who managed to escape. The Los Angeles District Attorney’s Office revealed that Prowell is charged with two counts of murder with the special circumstance allegation of multiple murders.
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According to prosecutors, Prowell first met Miguel Angel King on a dating app in July 2021. He is accused of fatally shooting King and then fleeing the scene in his car. King’s remains were discovered in Angeles National Forest a few weeks later, and forensic evidence from the vehicle linked Prowell to the crime. In another incident on August 21, 2023, Prowell allegedly met with Robert Gutierrez, and Gutierrez was reported missing two days later. Despite not finding Gutierrez’s body, prosecutors believe there is enough evidence to suggest Prowell is responsible for his death.
Earlier this year, in February, Prowell is said to have lured a third man from a dating app, bound him, stole his wallet, and beat him with a baseball bat. Although the victim managed to escape, Prowell reportedly chased him in a vehicle, causing serious injuries. At the time of his arrest, Prowell was already on probation for multiple burglaries committed between 2019 and 2021 in the Beverly Hills and Los Angeles areas. During those burglaries, Prowell allegedly disguised himself with a wig and face mask.
Prowell is now facing charges of attempted murder, carjacking, burglary, and assault with a deadly weapon on top of the murder charges. If convicted, he could potentially face the death penalty or life in state prison without parole. The Los Angeles County District Attorney highlighted the seriousness of the case, condemning the predatory nature of the acts committed by Prowell. The District Attorney also commended the investigative work of the Los Angeles Police Department and the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department in apprehending Prowell.
Currently, Prowell is being held on $2 million bail, and his arraignment was expected to take place at Clara Shortridge Foltz Criminal Justice Center. It remains unclear whether he has entered a plea or if he has legal representation. The case has sparked shock and horror in the community, with authorities urging caution and vigilance when using dating apps and meeting strangers. The victims’ families are left to grapple with the tragic loss of their loved ones, as the legal process unfolds to bring justice for the heinous crimes committed by Prowell.