“Kai, the Hatchet-Wielding Hitchhiker” (pictured left), who briefly gained fame on the Internet after intervening in an attack on a Fresno, CA utility worker, will soon be transported to Union County to face charges related to the Murder of 73-year old Joseph Galfy, Jr., a local and well-respected land use attorney. “Kai,” whose real name is Caleb McGillivary, was interviewed by a local CA television station after he admittedly used a hatchet to ward off the utility worker’s attacker. The clip ended up on YouTube and was viewed millions of times, eventually leading to an appearance on Jimmy Kimmel Live.
“Kai” has described himself as “home free” – not homeless, claiming to be “dead” to all those with whom he grew up in Sophia, W. Va. Family members, however, have expressed concern over his well-being, indicating in recent reports that “Kai” actually grew up in Alberta, and has been estranged from his family for some time.
According to authorities, “Kai” met the victim in New York City the weekend of May 11th, after which the two returned to the victim’s home in Clark. “Kai” purportedly stayed with the victim for at least one night before beating him to death in his bedroom and fleeing. The victim lived alone.
After being spotted in a Starbucks, “Kai” was arrested on the Murder charge and held in Philadelphia. He waived extradition yesterday and will soon be transported to Union County.
For more information, see the NorthJersey.com article entitled, “Kai the hitchhiker’ heading to New Jersey to face murder charge.”
