Tragic Double Homicide Shocks New York Art Community: Renowned Couple Found Slain at Home

Tragic Double Homicide Shocks New York Art Community: Renowned Couple Found Slain at Home

Buffalo Artists Found Slain; Person of Interest in Custody

Buffalo, N.Y. (2025-03-07) – Michael “Mickey” Harmon, 40, and Jordan Celotto, 37, two artists from Buffalo, N.Y., were found slain in their home on Tuesday, March 4. A 35-year-old man is being considered a “person of interest” in teh case.

Revelation and Initial Investigation

According to Deputy buffalo Police Commissioner Patrick Overdorf,officers discovered the bodies after responding to a call about a “person with a knife.” The call was made by a concerned friend when one of the victims did not show up for work, prompting concerns and a welfare check.

Overdorf stated, “Upon arrival, the officers did encounter a male with a knife. The male did drop the knife but only after cutting himself.” The individual was then transported to a local hospital under police supervision.

Details Emerge from press Conference

Acting Buffalo Mayor Chris Scanlon announced the victims’ identities during a press conference on Wednesday, March 5. The cause of death for both Harmon and Celotto was resolute to be blunt force trauma, according to the medical examiner’s office.

Council member Mitch Nowakowski, referring to harmon and Celotto as his “personal friends” and “partners for quite some time,” addressed concerns about the nature of the crime.Nowakowski stated, “As district council member and as a member of the LGBTQ community, there is nothing that suspects that this was a hate crime, so I want to put those tensions at ease. The larger Community does not have to be fearful that somebody that could be in connection of these homicides is at large.” Authorities have not yet confirmed any connection between the “person of interest” and the victims,as Scanlon stated,they “don’t have an answer” yet.

Impact on the Art Community

Harmon and Celotto were active figures in Buffalo’s art scene. Nowakowski described Harmon as a “prolific artist” and noted that he co-owned “The Pineapple” art gallery on Allen Street. He also highlighted that art was the “mutual connection” between Harmon and Celotto.

Nowakowski added, “Not only did they have to do different jobs to pay the bills, but they set performances and really garnered the artist community to work together,” highlighting their dedication to nurturing and connecting the local art community. They were also involved in various community events, further cementing their role as integral members of Buffalo.

Community Response

following the tragic news,numerous community organizations expressed their condolences and paid their respects,including the Pride Center of Western New york,north Park Theater,elmwood Village Association,Remedy House,and Explore Buffalo.

Loved ones have established GoFundMe campaigns to support funeral expenses: one “to help cover Mickey’s funeral costs” and another “to help Celotto’s family.”

Ongoing Investigation and Community Support

The investigation into the deaths of Michael “Mickey” Harmon and Jordan celotto is ongoing. The Buffalo Police Department is urging anyone with data to come forward. The community is rallying to support the families and honor the memory of these two beloved artists. Their contributions to Buffalo’s cultural landscape will be remembered.

Consider donating to the GoFundMe campaigns to help the families with funeral expenses and other immediate needs. Your support can make a difference during this difficult time.

How can the buffalo art community support the families of Michael Harmon and Jordan Celotto during this challenging time?

Buffalo Art Community Mourns Loss of Michael harmon and Jordan Celotto: An Interview with Sarah Klein

the Buffalo art scene is reeling after the tragic deaths of Michael “Mickey” Harmon and Jordan Celotto. Archyde spoke with Sarah Klein, Director of the Allentown Art Preservation Society (AAPS), to understand the impact of this devastating loss on the community.

Remembering Mickey and Jordan

Archyde: Sarah, thank you for taking the time to speak with us.The news of Mickey and Jordan’s passing has shaken buffalo. Can you share some of your memories of them and their contributions to the local art community?

Sarah Klein: Thank you for having me. it’s difficult to put into words the impact this has had.Mickey and Jordan were truly the heart of the Allentown art scene. mickey, with his boundless energy and talent, was a prolific artist, as Councilmember Nowakowski mentioned, and the Pineapple gallery he co-owned was a vibrant hub for artists of all disciplines. Jordan was equally passionate and dedicated to creating spaces for artists to collaborate and thrive. Their performances were unforgettable, and their commitment to bringing the Buffalo art community together was unwavering.

The Pineapple Gallery: A Hub of Creativity

Archyde: The Pineapple gallery seems to have been central to their work.Could you elaborate on its significance and the role it played in the lives of local artists?

Sarah Klein: The Pineapple was more than just a gallery; it was a sanctuary, a meeting place, a catalyst for creativity. Mickey and his partners created a welcoming and inclusive environment where emerging artists could showcase their work,experiment with new ideas,and connect with fellow creatives. They hosted workshops, exhibitions, and performances that drew people from all walks of life and fostered a real sense of community. It’s hard to imagine Allentown without The pineapple.

Impact on the Buffalo Art Scene

Archyde: Beyond The Pineapple, Harmon and Celotto were involved in numerous community events. How do you think their absence will be felt by the broader buffalo art community?

Sarah Klein: Their absence will be profoundly felt.They touched so many lives through their art, their advocacy, and their genuine kindness. they were champions of collaboration, always seeking to elevate the entire community rather than just themselves. Their deaths leave a void that will be difficult to fill. we need to honor their legacy by continuing their work and supporting the initiatives they were so passionate about.The Pride Center of Western New York, the Elmwood Village Association, and other organizations are crucial in this effort.

Moving Forward: Support and Remembrance

Archyde: What can the community do to support the families of Mickey and Jordan during this incredibly difficult time?

Sarah Klein: The ongoing GoFundMe campaigns are vital. Funeral expenses and other immediate needs place a significant burden on their loved ones. even a small donation can make a difference. Beyond financial support, it’s significant to remember and celebrate their lives through their art. Perhaps exhibitions showcasing their work, memorial performances, or scholarships in their names would be fitting tributes. Let’s ensure that their passion and dedication continue to inspire future generations of Buffalo artists.

A Question for Our readers

Archyde: This is certainly a tragedy for the entire city. What are your thoughts on how Buffalo can best remember and honor the legacy of Michael “Mickey” Harmon and Jordan Celotto? Share your ideas and reflections in the comments below.

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