Vanhxay Inthichack, 26

Vanhxay Inthichack, a 26-year-old who identified as a woman and was known to friends as Melony Smith, was found dead Monday, Sept. 9 in the 13000 block of Francisquito Avenue in Baldwin Park, according to L.A. County coroner’s records.

A friend became worried after she hadn’t heard from Smith. The friend contacted hotel staff, according to the San Gabriel Valley Tribune.

Smith was found face down on the hotel room floor with a bed sheet around her neck and multiple lacerations, according to coroner’s records.

She was pronounced dead at 12:55 p.m., according to coroner’s records.

Stephen Justin Gonzalez, 28, has been charged with murder and robbery in connection with the death, according to a felony complaint. He had been convicted of two prior felonies and is being held without bail.

Anyone with information is asked to contact the Sheriff’s Department homicide bureau at (323) 890-5500. Those who wish to remain anonymous can call Crime Stoppers at (800) 222-8477.

-- Los Angeles Times staff