Talay Riley, the Grammy-winning songwriter who worked with artists including Britney Spears and Dua Lipa, was found stabbed to death in London on Friday at the age of 35. Police identified him by his legal name, Mark Orabiyi, and said he was discovered with stab wounds in the garden of a property in Silvertown in east London. Despite efforts from paramedics, he was pronounced dead at the scene.
The Metropolitan Police said a man in his 20s was also taken to hospital with multiple stab wounds. Officers said his injuries are not believed to be life-threatening or life-changing.
Detective Chief Inspector Joanna Yorke confirmed that three people were initially arrested on suspicion of murder in connection with the investigation. Police later said a 27-year-old man was released on bail pending further inquiries, while a 24-year-old man and a 25-year-old woman were released with no further action.
Riley’s family released a statement mourning his death and describing him as a “beloved son, brother, uncle, and friend.” They said he brought love, light, and joy to the family and to everyone who knew him, and remembered his kindness, spirit, and talent. The family said his presence touched many lives and that his memory would remain in their hearts forever.
Riley had built a career as a songwriter in the music industry and was known for his work with major pop stars. His death has prompted an outpouring of shock and grief among those who knew him personally and professionally.
Police have not released further details about the circumstances of the attack, and the investigation remains ongoing. The incident in Silvertown is being treated as a homicide, and detectives continue to examine what led to the fatal stabbing.
