Arrest Made in Brutal Murder of 93-Year-Old Veteran: Suspect Charged with Multiple Offenses
The Philadelphia District Attorney's Office has announced that a suspect has been charged in the brutal murder of Lafayette Dailey, a 93-year-old military veteran who was stabbed multiple times in his home. The suspect, identified as Coy Thomas, allegedly fled the scene in Dailey's vehicle, which he later sold, and attempted to use the victim's debit card. Thomas has been charged with murder, robbery, possession of an instrument of crime, unauthorized use of a vehicle, and theft and receipt of stolen property.
Philadelphia police conducted a welfare check at Dailey's home after concerns were raised about his whereabouts. They found signs of a struggle inside the residence and discovered Dailey unresponsive with lacerations to the chest and head. Senator Sharif Street expressed shock at the senseless murder of Dailey, a beloved member of his community.
Dailey had not been seen or heard from for nearly two days before his niece notified the police. Surveillance footage showed a suspect entering Dailey's property, driving away in his vehicle, and attempting unauthorized transactions using his debit card. The suspect, described as a black male wearing specific clothing, was captured on camera.
Detectives revealed that unauthorized transactions were made using Dailey's debit card after his murder, and his vehicle was sold for $900. A preliminary hearing for Coy Thomas is scheduled for December 29th, 2025. Assistant District Attorney Ashley Toczylowski emphasized the commitment to holding Thomas accountable for the crime, while District Attorney Larry Krasner praised the collaborative efforts that have contributed to a decrease in homicides in Philadelphia.
For more information, Fox News Digital has reached out to the District Attorney's Office and the Philadelphia Police Department.