Investigators looking into the passing of a famous drag performer nearly two years ago have made public CCTV footage featuring three men they wish to question.
Steven Grygelko, known on stage as Heklina, was discovered deceased in a Soho flat in central London on April 3, 2023, by a friend and fellow drag artist, Joshua Grannell, who performs as Peaches Christ.
Both had traveled to London to appear in “Mommie Queerest,” a comedic take on the 1981 movie “Mommie Dearest,” which was scheduled for a two-week engagement at the Soho Theatre.
According to the Metropolitan Police, the London ambulance service alerted officers to a residential location after receiving reports of an individual “found unresponsive.” Grygelko, 55, was pronounced dead at the scene, as confirmed by authorities.
The circumstances surrounding Grygelko’s death are being deemed unexpected, and the case remains under active investigation in collaboration with the coroner’s office, per the Metropolitan Police.
Detective Chief Inspector Dean Purvis from the central west command unit stated, “Our sympathies are with Steven’s family and friends, who are still left with many unanswered questions regarding his demise.”
“We are aware that the three men captured in the CCTV footage were present at the flat during the early hours of April 3, 2023.”
“I urge them to reach out to the police. We need to clarify the events that occurred and the condition Steven was in when they departed.”
Anyone who recognizes these men is encouraged to provide that information.
Individuals with any knowledge are asked to contact 101, quoting CAD 1824/03Apr23.
Grygelko was originally from Minneapolis, Minnesota, in the United States, before relocating to San Francisco.
For nearly two years, Grygelko’s family and friends have sought clarity regarding the circumstances of his death, prompting inquiries into why the appeal for information was delayed. The Guardian has been attempting to determine a date for an inquest into Grygelko’s passing for the past three months.
Grannell announced the tragic news on social media on April 3, 2023, expressing his shock and dismay: “I am stunned and horrified to share this news. I feel as if I am living in a nightmare, so please understand if I lack all the details right now. Earlier today, in London, I went to meet my cherished friend Heklina, who was set to perform alongside me in ‘Mommie Queerest,’ only to find her dead.”
“I am not yet aware of the cause of death. I know this news is shocking, and I am utterly taken aback, but I wanted to inform everyone of what has transpired. Heklina was not only my closest friend but also a cherished icon within our community. I am heartbroken.”
