According to witnesses, O’Shae Sibley, a 28-year-old choreographer, was dancing and vogueing to the Grammy winner’s song at a Brooklyn gas station on July 29 when he was challenged by a group of guys who wanted him to stop.
After “a few fights and back and forth arguing,” one of the males “pulled out a knife and stabbed him” in the torso, according to a witness. Authorities are looking into the incident as a possible hate crime.
Shortly after his death, Beyoncé changed the homepage of her website to add a tribute in his honor that read, “Rest in Power O’ Shae Sibley.”
Otis Pena, a friend of Sibley’s, claimed he observed the stabbing and pondered on the terrible incident.
“They murdered him because he’s gay, because he stood up for his friends,” Pena said in a Facebook video posted on July 30. “His name was O’Shae, and you were all responsible for his death.” You all assassinated him in front of my eyes.”
Philadanco!, a Philadelphia dance group, also paid tribute to Sibley, noting that he had been a student and an apprentice since he was a youngster.
“This news is absolutely heartbreaking, and we believe no one deserves to be targeted simply for being themselves and living in their truth,” the firm posted on Facebook on August 1.
In the midst of our sadness, we pray for justice to triumph, seeking closure and reparation. His loss leaves an unforgettable vacuum, and his contributions reverberate throughout our hearts, bringing back fond memories.
In this challenging time, we humbly request that our kindred spirits send prayers for solace and comfort to his bereaved family and loved ones as they navigate the turbulent seas of bereavement.
New York City Mayor Eric Adams’ poignant remarks, firm in support and solidarity for the myriad of mourning impacted by Sibley’s premature death, show the seriousness of this sad occurrence.
Now, you have an incident like what we saw over the weekend with this young man who was experiencing that hate crime, and we will find the person responsible,” he stated on July 31.
“It shakes our confidence when someone randomly assaults someone on the street who may have a real mental health issue.” It disturbs your faith.”
Law enforcement sources, authorities are hunting for a 17-year-old suspect who fled the scene in a black SUV. The New York City Police Department confirmed the inquiry.
