Talay Riley, Songwriter for Britney Spears and Dua Lipa, Dead at 35 After Stabbing Incident

Talay Riley, also known as Mark Orabiyi, was fatally stabbed in east London on June 5. His family and fellow artists mourn his loss as police continue to investigate the incident.

Talay Riley, whose real name was Mark Orabiyi, was tragically killed in a stabbing incident that occurred in Silvertown, east London, on June 5, as confirmed by the Metropolitan Police. He was 35 years old.

Authorities received reports of a stabbing and, upon arriving at the scene, discovered Orabiyi with serious injuries in the garden of a nearby property. Emergency paramedics were called, but he was pronounced dead at the scene.

Another man in his 20s was also injured in the incident and was transported to a nearby hospital, with officials stating that his injuries were not life-threatening.

In the aftermath of the stabbing, police arrested three individuals: two men aged 27 and 25, and a 25-year-old woman, all on suspicion of murder. By June 7, the police reported that the 27-year-old suspect had been released on bail while the other two were released without any further actions taken.

Detective Chief Inspector Joanna Yorke provided an update on the investigation, stating, "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." She expressed her condolences, saying, "This is a tragic incident and my thoughts remain with Mark’s family and loved ones."

Following the heartbreaking news of Orabiyi's death, his brother, Michael Orabiyi, who is also a songwriter and producer known as Scribz Riley, shared his grief on social media. He reflected on their last conversation, stating, "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."

In his post, Michael Orabiyi included several photos of his brother, emphasizing, "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 outpouring of love already shows how many lives he impacted."

Throughout his career, Orabiyi collaborated with numerous notable artists, including Zendaya, Britney Spears—most notably on the song "Clumsy"—Dua Lipa with "Last Dance," and Khalid on "Young Dumb & Broke." Many of his fellow musicians expressed their sorrow over his unexpected passing.

Kehlani commented on Michael's tribute, offering her condolences with, "Big hugs scribz i’m so sorry," while Ella Mai added, "sending so much love&light your way."

In a statement released through the Metropolitan Police, Orabiyi's family remembered him for his "kindness, beautiful spirit, and remarkable talent." They described him as a "beloved son, brother, uncle, and friend" who brought love, light, and joy to those around him, concluding with, "His presence touched many lives, and his memory will remain in our hearts forever. May his soul rest in perfect peace."