UK Music Star Talay Riley Killed in Silvertown Stabbing

A murder investigation is underway in east London following the tragic death of acclaimed British singer-songwriter Talay Riley, who was killed in a double stabbing in Silvertown.

​The 35-year-old artist, whose legal name was Mark Olayinka Orabiyi, was found by emergency services yesterday morning (June 5) suffering from severe knife wounds.

​Attack in Broad Daylight

​Metropolitan Police officers and paramedics were called to reports of a knife attack on Pankhurst Avenue at approximately 9:00 AM.

​Mr. Riley was discovered in the garden of a property near Rayleigh Road. Despite the efforts of first responders, he was pronounced dead at the scene.

​A second victim, a man in his 20s, was discovered nearby with multiple stab wounds. He was rushed to a local hospital, where his injuries have been assessed as non-life-threatening.

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​Music Industry Mourns a Prolific Talent

​While formal identification from the Metropolitan Police is pending, the music industry and fans have flooded social media with tributes to the influential musician.

​Mr. Riley rose to prominence at just 18 years old when he signed a major publishing deal with Global Publishing. He went on to become a powerhouse behind the scenes in the UK and international music markets, famously writing the UK number-one hit single Oopsie Daisy for rapper Chip. Over his career, his songwriting and vocal talents saw him collaborate with global icons including Usher, Dua Lipa, and Britney Spears.

​Among those paying respects was Tottenham-born rapper Chip, who shared an emotional tribute on Instagram:

​”You ain’t 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.”

​On X (formerly Twitter), fans echoed the heartbreak, with one writing: “Another senseless killing of a young, British male. Such a talent gone at such a young age. Rest in paradise, Talay.”

​Three Arrests Made

​A swift police response resulted in the detention of three suspects near the scene shortly after the attack. A 25-year-old woman, alongside two men aged 24 and 27, were arrested on suspicion of murder. All three remain in police custody for questioning.

​Detective Chief Inspector Joanna Yorke, who is leading the investigation, expressed her condolences to the victim’s loved ones while attempting to reassure local residents.

​”I know that the community will be understandably concerned by the incident,” DCI Yorke said. “There remains a large police presence in the area, and I would urge anyone with concerns to speak with officers at the scene.”

​Appeal for Information

​The Metropolitan Police have launched a full appeal for witnesses, dashboard camera data, and doorbell or CCTV footage from the Pankhurst Avenue and Rayleigh Road areas.

​Anyone with information that could assist the investigation is urged to contact police by calling 101 and quoting reference CAD 1868/5JUN. Information can also be provided completely anonymously to the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.