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If convicted as charged, Yoon Lai faces life in state prison

LOS ANGELES — A husband has been charged with murder and arson in connection with the death of his wife, whose body was found in their burning San Marino home in January.

“The violent death of Dr. Irene Gaw-Lai is heartbreaking and deeply disturbing,” District Attorney Nathan J. Hochman said. “She was not only a respected physician and business leader, but a mother who deserved safety and dignity in her own home. We will not rest until the person responsible for this senseless tragedy is held fully accountable.”

Yoon Lai (dob 4/17/63) of San Marino has been charged with one felony count each of murder and arson of an inhabited structure. Lai pleaded not guilty during his arraignment today. His preliminary hearing setting has been scheduled for Aug. 12 in Department 36 of the Clara Shortridge Foltz Criminal Justice Center. His bail has been set in the amount of $2,250,000.

On Jan. 6 Lai is accused of killing his 56-year-old wife, Irene Gaw-Lai, and then attempting to cover up the crime by setting fire to their San Marino residence.

If convicted as charged, Lai faces life in state prison.

Case 25CJCF03936 is being prosecuted by Deputy District Attorney Alex Bott of the Major Crimes Division and was investigated by the San Marino Police Department and the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department Homicide Bureau.

The charges filed in this case are allegations. The defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law.