Grammy-nominated opera and gospel singer Jubilant Sykes has been stabbed to death in her California home.
Santa Monica Police said in a statement Tuesday that her son, Micah Sykes, 31, was arrested on suspicion of murder.
Officers responded to a 911 call about an assault in progress Monday around 9:20 p.m. Police officers were directed by the caller to proceed to the scene.
Officers found Sykes inside the residence, where he was stabbed and seriously injured. Paramedics pronounced him dead at the scene.
Police found the suspect, the victim's son, inside the residence and took him into custody without incident, the statement added.
Investigators are currently processing physical evidence collected at the scene, including a weapon recovered from the incident.
“The circumstances of the incident remain under investigation. The suspect will be charged with murder and the case will be submitted to the Los Angeles County District Attorney's Office for review,” the statement concluded.
Get the latest national news
For news impacting Canada and around the world, sign up for breaking news and have it delivered directly to you as it happens.
Jubilant Sykes was nominated for the 2010 Grammy Award for Best Classical Album for their performance on Leonard Bernstein's Mass. He also appeared as Jake in Gershwin's Porgy and Bess at the Metropolitan Opera in 1990.
current trends
'Act of evil': Shooting at Sydney Jewish holiday event declared terrorist attack
Will you send your taxes by mail? CRA says change is happening amid digital push
Throughout his career, Sykes performed at many esteemed venues, including the Kennedy Center, Hollywood Bowl, Carnegie Hall, London's Barbican Center, and the Apollo Theatre.
He was born in Los Angeles in 1954 and began singing as a soprano at an early age, then as a baritone as he grew up. He also played jazz and gospel music.
He told NPR in 2002 that he is comfortable singing in all genres, from pop to opera.
“My singing is like breathing, it's an extension of me. I don't think it's anything special. It's my passion,” he told NPR.
Sykes served as artistic advisor to the Santa Monica Orchestra and sang and narrated some of the group's performances, the group announced.
“Jubilant was a true inspiration. His artistry, generosity and kindness touched the lives of countless people,” said Roger Calia, music director of the Santa Monica Orchestra.
— With files from The Associated Press
Entertainment Details More Videos
© 2025 Global News, a division of Corus Entertainment Inc.