Bob Lee, the founder of a popular payment app, was believed to have delved into a secretive world of sex and drugs among San Francisco’s affluent circles, according to recent reports. Initially assumed to be a random act of violence, Lee’s friends now suggest that his extravagant lifestyle within the Bay Area’s elite, where cocaine and swingers abound, may have played a role in his untimely demise, as detailed by The Wall Street Journal.
Referred to as “The Lifestyle” among high society, the 43-year-old Lee allegedly frequented underground parties alongside Khazar Momeni, the sister of Nima Momeni, a prominent plastic surgeon. Insiders claim that Khazar, aged 37, was involved in a sexual relationship with Lee, causing concerns about his association with a potentially perilous crowd.
Prosecutors assert that Nima confronted Lee about excessive drinking and his sister’s involvement, leading to a confrontation that resulted in Lee sustaining multiple stab wounds in the early hours of April 4. Merely 16 minutes after leaving Khazar’s residence, Lee was discovered collapsed near the Bay Bridge, seeking help.
A close friend of Lee revealed his dedication to work as a popular alternative to Venmo, a digital payment platform, following his earlier career as a Google programmer. During his leisure time, however, Lee allegedly indulged in drugs like ketamine and cocaine, attending raves across the globe.
CEO Harper Reed of General Calacic Corporation even disclosed a shared experience of attending a party without pants alongside Lee. Another acquaintance, Devon Meyers, suggested that these events provided the IT programmer with an outlet to unwind and connect with influential individuals, noting that “The Lifestyle” gatherings enforced strict rules to remove anyone crossing boundaries under the influence.
Lee, who had recently gone through a divorce, was reportedly engaged in casual drug use and engaged in intimate encounters with multiple women at these parties, including Khazar.
Nima, a 38-year-old friend of Lee, was described by acquaintances as the more cautious one. Allegedly, on April 3, Nima confronted Lee at a house party, questioning whether he and his sister were involved in any illicit substance abuse, according to court documents.
Toxicology reports from the San Francisco Office of the Chief Medical Examiner revealed the presence of cocaine and ketamine in Lee’s system. Evidence presented in court showcased a text message sent by Khazar to Lee shortly before his death, expressing concern about Nima’s harsh treatment and appreciating Lee’s gentlemanly behavior.
Lee’s ex-wife, Krista, expressed her lack of awareness regarding “the lifestyle” and emphasized that he was not a “party boy.” She described him as a devoted father and responsible individual to the media.
As of April 13, Nima was in police custody, facing charges of murder, which could result in a maximum sentence of 26 years if convicted. Paula Canny, his defense lawyer, has indicated that Nima will enter a not-guilty plea.