A shocking incident unfolded Monday night when 71‑year‑old Jubilant Sykes, a Grammy‑nominated opera singer, was found dead in his Santa Monica home.
Incident Overview
The Santa Monica Police Department reported that authorities responded to a call about an assault in progress at the family residence. Jubilant Sykes was discovered with critical injuries and was pronounced dead at the scene.
Arrest and Investigation
During the same operation, the department located Micah Sykes, 31, inside the house and took him into custody without incident. He was booked on suspicion of homicide. A weapon was recovered at the scene and is being processed alongside other physical evidence. The police department has forwarded the case to the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office.
Background on Jubilant Sykes
Jubilant Sykes was a classically trained baritone whose repertoire blended gospel, jazz, and folk influences. He gained national attention when his rendition of Leonard Bernstein’s “Mass” earned a Grammy Award nomination in 2010.
Legal Process
At the time of the report, it was not immediately clear whether Micah Sykes had retained a lawyer. The Santa Monica Police Department stated that he was booked on suspicion of homicide and that the case would proceed through the Los Angeles County judicial system.
Key Takeaways
- 71‑year‑old Jubilant Sykes, a Grammy‑nominated opera singer, was fatally stabbed in his Santa Monica home.
- Micah Sykes, 31, the son of the victim, was arrested and booked on suspicion of homicide.
- The Santa Monica Police Department recovered a weapon and forwarded the case to the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office.
The incident has drawn national attention due to the victim’s prominence in the classical music community. Authorities continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the fatal assault, and the legal proceedings will determine the next steps in the case.



