Grammy-winning Nigerian-British singer and songwriter Talay Riley has died after a stabbing incident in Silvertown. He was 35.
The musician, born Mark “Yinka” Orabiyi, was found with stab wounds at about 9:00 a.m. on Friday, June 5, 2026, on Pankhurst Avenue. Emergency responders attended the scene, but he was pronounced dead there.
According to the Metropolitan Police Service, a second man in his 20s was also injured in the incident and remains in hospital with injuries that are not believed to be life-threatening.
Homicide detectives have opened a murder investigation.
In a statement released by his family, they confirmed his death and paid tribute to the singer and songwriter.
- “It is with overwhelming sadness that we confirm that Mark ‘Yinka’ Orabiyi, professionally known as Talay Riley, passed away yesterday morning.”
The family described him as a Grammy Award-winning, multi-platinum-selling songwriter and artist whose humor, generosity, and presence touched many lives.
“We are deeply grateful for the enormous outpouring of love and support that we have received through messages, calls and visits over the past hours.”
Talay Riley built a career that spanned more than a decade in the music industry. He secured a publishing deal at the age of 18 before signing with Jive/Sony Records after appearing on songs by British rapper Chip.
As a songwriter, he worked with some of the biggest names in international music, including Dua Lipa, Britney Spears, H.E.R., Khalid, Jessie J, Jason Derulo and Nick Jonas.
His writing credit on “Lights On,” from H.E.R.’s self-titled project, contributed to the album’s win for Best R&B Album at the Grammy Awards. He also continued releasing his own music while writing for other artists and had recently worked on projects by Paloma Faith, Kelela, Kehlani, and the British girl group Flo.
His brother, songwriter and producer Scribz Riley, shared an emotional tribute on Instagram.
“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 friend to many, a mentor, an inspiration, and a light in so many people’s lives.”
“He had one of the purest hearts I’ve ever known. He loved deeply, gave freely, and touched countless people through his talent, kindness, and spirit.”
The post attracted messages from artists who had worked with or admired Talay Riley. Stormzy wrote, “I’m sorry bro,” while Kehlani commented, “Big hugs, Scribs. I’m so sorry.”
Singer Paloma Faith also shared her reaction, saying:
“Omg I am in shock. I had no idea I worked with him quite a few times, and he was such an amazing talent and fun person to be around.”
Other messages of condolence came from Craig David, Khalid, Ella Mai, Wretch 32 and Oritsé Williams.
The Metropolitan Police said three people were arrested on suspicion of murder. A 27-year-old man has been released on bail pending further inquiries, while a 24-year-old man and a 25-year-old woman were released with no further action.
Detectives said the investigation is continuing and appealed to anyone who was in the area or has security footage from Pankhurst Avenue in Silvertown on the morning of June 5, 2026, to contact police.
