Grammy-Winning Nigerian-British Singer Stabbed to Death in UK

Mark Yinka Orabiyi, professionally known as Talay Riley

Grammy-Winning Nigerian-British Singer Stabbed to Death in UK

London, United Kingdom – The music world is in mourning following the tragic death of Grammy-winning Nigerian-British singer and songwriter Mark Yinka Orabiyi, professionally known as Talay Riley, who was stabbed to death in east London on Friday morning. He was 35 years old.

The incident occurred around 9 a.m. on Friday, June 5, 2026, on Rayleigh Road in Silvertown, east London. Police responded to reports of a stabbing and discovered Riley in the garden of a property suffering from multiple stab wounds. Despite emergency services’ efforts, he was pronounced dead at the scene.

A second victim, a man in his 20s, was also found with multiple stab wounds and was transported to a hospital. As of Sunday evening, he remained receiving treatment, but his injuries are not believed to be life-threatening or life-changing.

The Metropolitan Police confirmed that homicide detectives from the Specialist Crime Command have launched a murder investigation. Three suspects were initially arrested on suspicion of murder: a 27-year-old man, a 24-year-old man, and a 25-year-old woman.

According to police statements, the 27-year-old suspect has been released on bail pending further enquiries, while the 24-year-old man and 25-year-old woman have been released with no further action.

In a heartbreaking statement released through police, Riley’s family described their loss with overwhelming sadness.

“It is with overwhelming sadness that we confirm that Mark ‘Yinka’ Orabiyi, professionally known as Talay Riley, passed away yesterday morning,” the family statement read.

They continued: “Talay will fondly be remembered by those who knew him publicly for his incredible talent as a Grammy Award-winning, multi-platinum-selling songwriter and artist. For those that knew and loved him personally, it is his humour, generous spirit and unmistakable presence that will be missed the most.”

The family also described Riley as “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.”

Riley’s younger brother, Michael Orabiyi Riley, known professionally as Scribz Riley—a successful music producer and songwriter in his own right—shared an emotional tribute on Instagram that revealed the heartbreaking details of their final conversation.

“I never thought the day would come where I’d be writing this, but unfortunately I can confirm that in the morning of Friday 5th June my big brother YINKA (Talay Riley) passed away,” 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.”

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He continued: “Yinka wasn’t just my brother. He was my mother’s son, a friend to many, a mentor, an inspiration, and a light in so many people’s lives. Even with everything you accomplished this was far too soon. I love you brother. Thank you for everything. Rest in paradise Yinka. Until we meet again.”

Born Mark Yinka Orabiyi in London in 1990, Talay Riley had Nigerian heritage and grew up in East London in a family where music played a central role. He entered the music industry at the young age of 18 after securing a publishing deal with Global Publishing.

His career gained wider recognition following a feature on Chip’s 2009 single ‘Look For Me,’ after which he signed with Jive/Sony Records. Over the years, he toured across the United Kingdom and the United States, sharing stages with major artists including Skepta, Usher, and Trey Songz.

However, it was behind the scenes that Riley made some of his most significant marks. He built an impressive songwriting portfolio that included credits on tracks for some of the biggest names in pop and R&B. His songwriting credits include Chip’s UK No.1 hit ‘Oopsy Daisy,’ Khalid’s global smash ‘Young Dumb & Broke,’ Dua Lipa’s ‘Last Dance,’ as well as work with H.E.R., Chris Brown, Usher, Britney Spears, Kehlani, Craig David, Ella Mai, Nick Jonas, Zendaya, Tinie Tempah, and The Chainsmokers. At the time of his death, he had 76,000 monthly listeners on Spotify.

News of Riley’s death prompted an outpouring of grief from across the music industry, with fellow artists and collaborators sharing their shock and condolences on social media.

Craig David, who worked with Riley, commented: “Sending so much love to you & the family. His beautiful energy will continue to be felt & shown from the other side.”

Kehlani shared: “Big hugs scribz i’m so sorry.”

R&B superstar Khalid wrote: “I’m so sorry bro… im sending you so much love.”

Riley’s longtime friend and collaborator, rapper Chip, delivered an emotional tribute on Instagram: “You aint deserve to go out like that fam. 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.”

Stormzy was also among the famous artists to pay tribute to the singer. This Morning presenter Rochelle Humes commented: “May he rest in peace. I will always remember how kind he was to everyone and his friendly smile.”

Detective Chief Inspector Joanna Yorke, who is leading the investigation, appealed to the public for assistance.

“This is a tragic incident and my thoughts remain with Mark’s family and loved ones,” she said.

“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.”

Specialist officers are providing support to Riley’s family during this difficult time. Anyone with information is asked to call police on 101 quoting CAD 1868/5JUN, or contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.