Theobald “Theo” Lengyel, an original member of the 1980s experimental band Mr. Bungle, was taken into custody on Tuesday, January 2, 2024, in connection with the alleged murder of his girlfriend, Alice “Alyx” Kamakaokalani Herrmann, 61.
Herrmann had been missing since December 3, 2023, prompting a comprehensive investigation by law enforcement agencies.
Lengyel, known for his instrumental contributions on the saxophone, clarinet, and keyboards in Mr. Bungle, became a significant figure in the investigation after Herrmann’s disappearance on December 3, 2023.
In a recent announcement, the Capitola Police Department reported the finding of human remains in a forested area of Tilden Regional Park in Berkeley, California. The identity of these remains is pending DNA verification from the Contra Costa County Coroner’s Office.
Herrmann was officially reported missing on December 12, having last been seen alive on December 3. The police had suspected foul play since the beginning of the investigation.
Also known as “Mylo Stone,” the 54-year-old Lengyel had been unresponsive to police inquiries and was deemed a person of interest.
His actions following Herrmann’s disappearance raised eyebrows. Lengyel reportedly traveled over 600 miles from his residence in El Cerrito, California, to Portland, Oregon. Meanwhile, Herrmann’s vehicle was discovered outside his home in El Cerrito, a city not far from Berkeley.
The authorities have not yet shared a possible motive for the alleged murder. Lengyel was apprehended and is currently being held in the Santa Cruz County Jail. He has been charged with first-degree murder, with no information yet regarding bail or additional charges.
Founded by high school students Mike Patton, Trey Spruance, and Trevor Dunn in 1985, Mr. Bungle saw significant contributions from Lengyel until his exit in the mid-1990s. According to bassist Trevor Dunn, Lengyel’s departure was reportedly due to a divergence in artistic growth and direction with the band.
Given his previous prominence in the music industry, Lengyel’s arrest has garnered significant attention. The investigation into Herrmann’s disappearance and death continues.