Grammy-winning singer-songwriter Talay Riley has passed away at the age of 35 after being fatally stabbed in East London. According to London's Metropolitan Police, emergency services responded to reports of a stabbing in the Silvertown area, and Riley was pronounced dead on June 5.
Details of the Incident
In a statement released on their official page, the Metropolitan Police said, "Police were called at around 09:00hrs on Friday, 5 June to reports that a man had been stabbed in Pankhurst Avenue, E16. Officers attended with the London Ambulance Service and found a 35-year-old man with stab wounds in the garden of a property in nearby Rayleigh Road." Despite the efforts of paramedics, he was sadly pronounced dead at the scene.
About Talay Riley
Riley, whose birth name was Mark Orabiyi, was known for his work with major artists including Usher, Nick Jonas, and Dua Lipa. He earned a Grammy Award for co-writing 'Lights On' by H.E.R., a track featured on the singer's Grammy-winning self-titled debut album released in 2017. His family paid tribute in a post released by the police, stating, "Mark was a beloved son, brother, uncle, and friend. He brought love, light, and joy to our family and to all who knew him. We will always cherish his kindness, beautiful spirit, and remarkable talent. His presence touched many lives, and his memory will remain in our hearts forever. May his soul rest in perfect peace."
Investigation and Arrests
Detective Chief Inspector Joanna Yorke, leading the investigation, expressed condolences while appealing for information. In a statement to Deadline, Yorke said, "This is a tragic incident and my thoughts remain with Mark’s family and loved ones. Our investigation continues at pace. I would like to appeal for anyone who was in the area at the time of this incident to speak to police. We are particularly interested in hearing from anyone who might have CCTV or other footage from the morning of the incident that could assist our investigation." Police confirmed that three people were arrested on suspicion of murder. However, a 27-year-old man has since been released on bail pending further enquiries, while a 24-year-old man and a 25-year-old woman were released with no further action. The investigation into Riley's death remains ongoing.
