Philadelphia Man Arrested in 93-Year-Old Murder Case

Police lights illuminating a Philadelphia street during a murder investigation

Philadelphia, December 15, 2025

Coy Thomas, 53, has been arrested for the murder of 93-year-old Lafayette Dailey in Philadelphia. Dailey was found dead in his home, having suffered multiple stab wounds. The investigation led authorities to identify Thomas as a suspect, culminating in his arrest on December 14 at 22nd and Lehigh Avenue. This case has raised concerns within the Logan neighborhood, where the victim resided.

Philadelphia

Philadelphia police have arrested Coy Thomas, 53, in connection with the murder of 93-year-old Lafayette Dailey. Thomas was taken into custody on Sunday, December 14, at 22nd and Lehigh Avenue, Philadelphia, facing a charge of murder.

The arrest follows an investigation into the death of Lafayette Dailey, who was found deceased in his home on North 16th Street in the Logan neighborhood on December 5. A medical examination later determined that Dailey’s death was caused by multiple stab wounds.

Law enforcement officials had identified Coy Thomas as a suspect in the homicide earlier in the week.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who was arrested for the murder of 93-year-old Lafayette Dailey?
Coy Thomas, 53, was arrested in connection with the murder of 93-year-old Lafayette Dailey.
When and where was Coy Thomas arrested?
Coy Thomas was arrested on Sunday, December 14, at 22nd and Lehigh Avenue, Philadelphia.
What was the cause of Lafayette Dailey’s death?
Lafayette Dailey’s death was caused by multiple stab wounds.
When was Lafayette Dailey found deceased?
Lafayette Dailey was found deceased in his home on North 16th Street in the Logan neighborhood on December 5.

Key Details of the Homicide Investigation

Feature Description
Victim’s Name Lafayette Dailey
Victim’s Age 93 years old
Suspect’s Name Coy Thomas
Suspect’s Age 53 years old
Date Victim Found December 5
Cause of Death Multiple stab wounds
Date of Arrest Sunday, December 14
Location of Arrest 22nd and Lehigh Avenue, Philadelphia
Charge Murder

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STAFF HERE PHILADELPHIA WRITER
Author: STAFF HERE PHILADELPHIA WRITER

The PHILADELPHIA STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREPhiladelphia.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Philadelphia, Philadelphia County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Mummers Parade, Philadelphia Flower Show, and Thanksgiving Day Parade. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Philadelphia Chamber of Commerce and United Way of Greater Philadelphia, plus leading businesses in telecommunications, food services, and healthcare that power the local economy such as Comcast, Aramark, and Children's Hospital of Philadelphia. As part of the broader HERE network, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Pennsylvania's dynamic landscape.

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