Talay Riley stabbed to death in east London garden as murder probe opens
Tributes have been paid to a singer-songwriter who collaborated with some of the world’s biggest stars and was stabbed to death in the garden of a London property.
Mark Orabiyi, 35, was found by emergency services with stab wounds in a garden on Pankhurst Avenue, east London, on Friday morning.
Despite the best efforts of medics, Mr. Orabiyi, who went by the stage name Talay Riley, was pronounced dead on arrival at the hospital.
The Met Police said on Sunday that while a formal identification is yet to take place, the victim’s family are being supported by specialist officers.
A second man, in his 20s, was also taken to the hospital and treated for stab wounds, which are not believed to be life-threatening.
Two men, aged 27 and 24, and a 25-year-old woman, were arrested near the scene on suspicion of murder.
The 24-year-old man and 25-year-old woman were released with no further action. The 27-year-old man has been released on bail pending further inquiries.
The musician previously toured with artists including Skepta, Usher, and Trey Songz in both the UK and US. He also had an extensive list of songwriting credits, writing on tracks for artists including Tinie Tempah, Jessie J, Ellie Goulding, Britney Spears, and Craig David. He co-wrote the Dua Lipa song Last Dance.
He worked on hits like Khalid’s Young Dumb & Broke, The Chainsmokers’ Who Do You Love, FLO’s Walk Like This, and Kehlani’s Out The Window.
Talay co-wrote H.E.R.’s song Lights On, which appeared on her Grammy Award-winning self-titled 2017 album.
Paying tribute, Mark’s family said: "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."
Detective Chief Inspector Joanna Yorke, who is leading the Met’s investigation, 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."
The rapper Chip, formerly known as Chipmunk, wrote on Instagram: "Fly high bro. Your pen will live forever. What a day man. What a life… RIP Talay Riley.
"I’ll cherish the memories forever fam. Prayers and thoughts go out to your family. From pirate radio and Chanel U teens to #1 and platinum. Penaliens. We did that.
"God bless you man. Hail up all the other fallen soldiers for me up there. Until we meet again."
Technology & Business Editor
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