Grammy-winning British songwriter Talay Riley has died at the age of 35 after being stabbed in east London on Friday morning.
The Metropolitan Police were called to Silvertown at approximately 9am following reports of a stabbing.
Officers discovered the musician, whose real name was Mark Orabiyi, in the garden of a property on Rayleigh Road, suffering from multiple stab wounds.
Despite the efforts of emergency services, he was pronounced dead at the scene.
Tributes from across the music world have poured in for Talay Riley
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A second man, believed to be in his twenties, was also found with stab injuries and transported to the hospital. His condition is understood not to be life-threatening.
Formal identification has not yet taken place, though specialist officers are providing support to Mr Orabiyi’s family.
Three individuals were arrested on suspicion of murder shortly after the incident. A 27-year-old man has since been released on bail while detectives continue their enquiries, the Met confirmed.
The two other suspects, a 24-year-old man and a 25-year-old woman, were released without further action following questioning.
Talay Riley was a Grammy-winning songwriter
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Homicide detectives from the Specialist Crime Command are leading the murder investigation.
Detective Chief Inspector Joanna Yorke, heading the inquiry, said: “This is a tragic incident, and my thoughts remain with Mark’s family and loved ones.”
She added: “Our investigation continues at pace. I would like to appeal to anyone who was in the area at the time of this incident to speak to the police.”
Officers are particularly keen to obtain CCTV or other footage from Friday morning that might assist their investigation.
Mr Orabiyi’s family released a statement describing him as “a beloved son, brother, uncle, and friend” who “brought love, light, and joy to our family and to all who knew him.”
They added: “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.”
His younger brother, songwriter Scribz Riley, whose real name is Michael Orabiyi Riley, shared a personal tribute on Instagram.
He wrote: “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 mentor, an inspiration, and a light in so many people’s lives.”
Tributes from across the music industry have poured in following news of Mr Orabiyi’s death.
Talay Riley in 2015
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Rapper Chip, who collaborated with Mr Orabiyi on his 2009 number-one single Oopsy Daisy, wrote on Instagram: “Fly high bro. Your pen will live forever. What a day man. What a life… RIP Talay Riley.”
Stormzy offered condolences to the family, writing: “I’m sorry bro.”
Craig David, who worked with Mr Orabiyi on his 2018 album The Time Is Now, commented: “Sending so much love to you & the family. His beautiful energy will continue to be felt & shown from the other side.”
American artists Kehlani and Khalid also expressed their sorrow.
Mr Orabiyi built a formidable reputation as a songwriter, penning tracks for Khalid, Dua Lipa, Britney Spears, Chris Brown and Usher.
He co-wrote H.E.R.’s Lights On, which featured on her Grammy-winning 2017 album.