Santa Monica Murder Victim Identified as 70 Year Old Singer, Jubilant Sykes

12.9.25: Authorities are investigating a fatal stabbing in Santa Monica as a homicide after a neighbor identified the victim as Grammy-nominated opera and jazz singer Jubilant Sykes, a prominent figure in the global music scene known for his soulful tenor voice and collaborations with artists like Sting and the Soweto Gospel Choir.

The incident unfolded late Monday evening around 9:30 p.m. in the 1700 block of Delaware Avenue, a quiet residential neighborhood near the city's bustling pier. Santa Monica Police Department officers responded to multiple 911 calls reporting a person in distress inside a home. Upon arrival, they discovered an adult male suffering from significant injuries consistent with a stabbing, according to Lt. Erika Aklufi, a department spokesperson. Paramedics pronounced the man dead at the scene despite life-saving efforts.

Reports from multiple sources confirm that the murder suspect is an adult male family member, specifically one of Jubilant Sykes' three sons, who was detained at the scene without incident and remains in police custody. Neighbors, including Sammy Murphy who spoke to KTLA, described the incident as stemming from a possible altercation or family dispute, with one noting that Sykes had three sons and characterizing the suspect as having a history of mental illness—details echoed in statements from FOX 11 and MyNewsLA. Authorities have not officially named the suspect or released his identity, and the cause of death (initially reported as a shooting but under ongoing investigation) has not been finalized by the Santa Monica Police Department or the Los Angeles County Coroner's Office. The investigation is treating the case as an isolated household incident with no broader threat to the community.

While the Los Angeles County Coroner's Office has not yet officially released the victim's identity pending family notification, longtime neighbor Sammy Murphy, 62, spoke exclusively to KTLA on Tuesday morning, confirming the deceased as Sykes. "I was born and raised in Santa Monica, so we were really pretty close out here," Murphy told reporter Carlos Herrera, his voice breaking. "What a singer... good spirit, good-hearted person, beautiful family. This neighborhood feels shattered right now."

Sykes, 70, was a celebrated vocalist whose career spanned decades, blending classical opera with jazz and spirituals. Born in Los Angeles, he gained international acclaim in the 1990s for his role in the Broadway revival of Porgy and Bess and later for his guest appearances on recordings by jazz legends like Eric Clapton. Nominated for a Grammy in 2002 for Best Opera Recording, Sykes was also a dedicated philanthropist, founding music education programs for underprivileged youth in Southern California. Friends and fans took to social media overnight, sharing tributes that highlighted his warm baritone and commitment to cultural bridge-building. "Jubilant didn't just sing; he healed," wrote one admirer on X, formerly Twitter.

The investigation remains active, with police treating the death as a homicide. No suspects have been named, and authorities have not disclosed a motive or details about a potential weapon. Detectives are canvassing the area for witnesses and reviewing home security footage from nearby properties. "This is a tight-knit community, and we're urging anyone with information to come forward," Aklufi said in a statement. "Our hearts go out to the family and all who knew this incredible individual."

The Santa Monica Police Department is offering a $50,000 reward for information leading to an arrest. Tips can be submitted anonymously to the SMPD tip line at (310) 458-8491 or via the LAPD's Crime Stoppers at (800) 222-TIPS.

As the coastal city grapples with this tragedy, local leaders expressed grief over the loss of a cultural icon. Santa Monica Mayor Phil Brock issued a brief statement: "Jubilant Sykes was more than a voice for our city-he was its heartbeat. We will support his loved ones and work tirelessly to bring justice."

This story is developing, with updates expected as more details emerge from the investigation.