Stormzy and Craig David have led tributes to British music star Talay Riley, who was stabbed to death in east London at the age of 35. The singer-songwriter, whose real name was Mark Orabiyi, was discovered with serious stab wounds by paramedics on the morning of June 5 and was pronounced dead at the scene in Silvertown.
Outpouring of Grief
Grammy-winning Riley collaborated with some of the biggest names in the industry, including Dua Lipa, Zendaya, Khalid, Flo, and Chipmunk. His brother, Michael Orabiyi, known as record producer and songwriter Scribz Riley, expressed his devastation on Instagram: "My heart is shattered! This doesn't feel real. It feels like a bad dream. Just before he went to sleep, we spoke about the future, staying positive and about everything we still had left to do. I never imagined that would be our last conversation."
He described his brother as "a friend to many, a mentor, an inspiration, and a light in so many people's lives," adding: "He had one of the purest hearts I've ever known. He loved deeply, gave freely, and touched countless people through his talent, kindness, and spirit."
Stormzy offered his condolences on the post, writing: "I'm sorry bro." JLS member Williams added: "Sending you and your family strength and prayers in Jesus name my brother." Craig David wrote: "Sending so much love to you & the family. His beautiful energy will continue to be felt & shown from the other side."
Further Tributes
Avery Wilson penned: "Rest in peace my friend! Definitely will be missed!" British rapper Wretch 32 expressed: "Sending love to you & your family bro. Your brother was a gem & will be missed & never forgotten, Never! RIP." Deborah Cox said: "Awe man. I'm so sad... He was so talented and lovely. May he rest in peace."
Fleur East shared: "What a supremely talented soul!! I can't believe it. May his soul rest in peace. Sending so much love." Singer Kara Marni wrote: "Heartbreaking." Orabiyi contributed to chart-topping tracks such as Khalid's 'Young Dumb & Broke', The Chainsmokers' 'Who Do You Love', HER's 'Lights On', Flo's 'Walk Like This', and Kehlani's 'Out The Window'. Kehlani responded: "Big hugs Scribs I'm so sorry," while HER posted a hug emoji. Khalid expressed: "I'm so sorry bro... I'm sending you so much love." Sugababes member Keisha Buchanan offered: "Sending my condolences and prayers, so very sorry."
Police Investigation
Officers were alerted at approximately 9am on June 5 following reports of a stabbing in Pankhurst Avenue, Silvertown. Riley was discovered with stab injuries in the garden of a residence on neighbouring Rayleigh Road. Three individuals were taken into custody on June 5 on suspicion of murder. A 27-year-old man has been released on bail pending further enquiries. Following police questioning, a second man, aged 24, and a 25-year-old woman have been released with no further action.
Detective Chief Inspector Joanna Yorke, leading the Metropolitan Police investigation, stated: "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."
If you have been affected by this story, Cruse Bereavement Support offers free help to make sense of how you are feeling. Click here for their website or call 0808 808 1677.
