A 26-year old gay man was stabbed to death in his home in Maryland.
Matt Murrey was employed as a Security Guard in Washington DC and a frequent attendee of many Black Pride events in the city. On May 30th, DC cops were summonsed to his apartment to check on his welfare.
“When they arrived, they found the victim suffering from trauma inside of his home,” the police statement says. “He was pronounced dead at the scene.”
Homicide investigators are trying to identify a motive and a suspect in his murder. Anyone who may have information about the killing is asked to call Prince George’s Police Homicide Unit at 301-722-4925.
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Two of Murrey’s friends, Allen James and Terrence Ford, told the Washington Blade that they knew the victim as Matt Murrey and were not familiar with the hyphened last name of Mickens-Murrey released by police. Murrey identified himself on his Facebook page as Matt Murrey.
Supporter of DC Black Pride Events
Apparently, he was a frequent patron to many of the District’s gay bars, according to a friend of Murray per a statement he made to the Washington Blade. He believes he was last seen at Nellie’s on May 28 at between 9-10 pm. Murrey is said to have visited establishments like Fireplace, Cobalt and Bachelor’s Mill.
Devin Barrington Ward, on Facebook, wrote: “The news of Matt Murray murder is the worst way to close out DC Black Pride.
My heart goes out to his family and friends during this tragic time. Praying for peace, comfort, and understanding.”
Friend Juan Carlos Carabello posted: “Today I found out that I lost someone I considered my little brother. I really can’t believe you’re gone. My heart is broken that I will never get to see you again. I have known you for over 10 years, the sweetest kindest person I know.”
And another friend , Terrence Ford shared: “Matt Murrey was the sweetest, kindest, most down to earth person you’d ever want to meet. HE was always nothing but smiles, laughter and positivity.”
Someone else wrote: “You are loved my brother. I leave my love, condolences, and prayers to your family as they grapple with this huge loss of such a wonderful person. When God welcomes you through those gates, do me a favor and tell Whitney I said hello. I love you sir.”
Reflecting on the news, somebody wrote: “Praying for your family and praying for our community. It sounds so cliche to say “life is short” or “tomorrow is not promised,” but just love on each other. We don’t have time for pettiness or anything trivial because you’ll never know if today will be your last. Sleep well in heavenly peace my brother. Take your wings and fly…”
People that knew Matt have shared that he was planning to attend some of the LGBT events associated with D.C.’s Black Pride fest, which takes place every year over the Memorial Day weekend.
h/t: Washington Blade and Gay Star News
