A 35-year-old Grammy-winning singer-songwriter, who was found with stab wounds in an east London garden, died as a result of “sharp force” trauma to his torso, an inquest opening has heard.
Mark Orabiyi, known professionally as Talay Riley, was pronounced dead in the rear garden of a property in Rayleigh Road, Silvertown, at 9:49am on June 5, East London Coroner’s Court was told on Wednesday.
Orabiyi, who collaborated with Craig David, Dua Lipa, Jessie J and Usher, was behind hits such as Khalid’s “Young Dumb & Broke” and Becky Hill’s “Afterglow”, which was certified triple platinum in the UK.
A post-mortem examination concluded Orabiyi died of injuries sustained to either his chest or abdomen with a sharp pointed instrument.
Area coroner Nadia Persaud said she would not set any directions for the inquest as the police investigation into Orabiyi’s death is ongoing and she would suspend the inquest if charges are brought.
The Metropolitan Police arrested three people on suspicion of murder on 5 June.
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 after being questioned.
Ms Persaud said Orabiyi’s family, who are aware of the inquest opening, have been made “interested persons”, meaning they will be able to make submissions and question witnesses to a future inquest.
She said she would set a review date for the inquest in three months.
Stormzy, Oritse Williams and Wretch 32 were among the artists who paid tributes to Orabiyi in the wake of his death.
His brother Michael Orabiyi, better known as record producer and songwriter Scribz Riley, wrote on Instagram: “My heart is shattered! This doesn’t feel real. It feels like a bad dream.”
Stormzy commented on the post: “I’m sorry bro”, while JLS star Williams wrote: “Sending you and your family strength and prayers in Jesus name my brother.”
British rapper Wretch 32 said: “Sending love to you & your family bro. Your brother was a gem & will be missed & never forgotten, Never! RIP.”
Orabiyi worked on hits including The Chainsmokers’ “Who Do You Love”, HER’s “Lights On”, Flo’s “Walk Like This” and Kehlani’s “Out The Window”.
