Grammy-nominated opera singer Jubilant Sykes was fatally stabbed inside his Santa Monica residence late Monday, and his 31-year-old son has been arrested in connection with the killing, according to authorities, as reported by The New York Post.
Police said Sykes’ wife called 911 at approximately 9:19 p.m. to report witnessing an assault involving their son at their home on Delaware Avenue near 18th Street in the Pico neighborhood.
Grammy-nominated Opera Singer Jubilant Sykes was stabbed to death at his home in Santa Monica, California, and his Son was arrested on suspicion of murder. pic.twitter.com/qnE66bhLBo
— Trenches and City Updates (@TrenchesAndCity) December 9, 2025
Santa Monica Police Lt. Lewis Gilmour said officers entered the home and found Sykes, 71, suffering from significant injuries.
Personnel from the Santa Monica Fire Department pronounced him dead at the scene. Police arrested Sykes’ son, Micah Sykes, at the home.
He was booked on a homicide charge, and the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office will determine additional charges. Neighbors and police said Micah had a history of mental illness.
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“Based on the preliminary investigation, detectives believe this was an isolated incident contained within the household,” Gilmour said. The investigation remains active.
Neighbors described Sykes as a respected and well-liked member of the community.
One longtime tenant who lived in a unit owned by Sykes for 20 years said, “It’s just devastating. Unbelievable. Unbelievable.”
The neighbor described Sykes as “cool people,” adding that “Jubilant wasn’t the type to argue.” The tenant said Micah lived with his parents but spent most of his time in the garage, often playing loud music.
I’ll never forget the very first time I heard Jubilant Sykes sing in person at my first @shepconf in 2019. There was/is NOTHING like it.
An incredibly kind man who loved Christ, and worshipped Him with voice of pure GOLD!
Please join me in praying for his family, friends, and… pic.twitter.com/Zzzwo6UgOY
— Chris Huff (@ChrisHuff) December 9, 2025
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