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Man Charged with Murdering 93-Year-Old Veteran in Philadelphia

12/17/2025

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Summary

Story summary

The Philadelphia District Attorney’s Office charged 53-year-old Coy Thomas with the murder of 93-year-old military veteran Lafayette Dailey, who was found fatally stabbed in his home on December 5, 2023.
Authorities allege Thomas fled in Dailey’s vehicle, later selling it and attempting to use the victim’s debit card.
Thomas's preliminary hearing is scheduled for December 29, 2025.
District Attorney Larry Krasner commended community efforts to reduce homicides, while Assistant District Attorney Ashley Toczylowski stressed the commitment to accountability.

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Story summary

The Philadelphia District Attorney’s Office charged 53-year-old Coy Thomas with the murder of 93-year-old military veteran Lafayette Dailey, who was found fatally stabbed in his home on December 5, 2023.
Authorities allege Thomas fled in Dailey’s vehicle, later selling it and attempting to use the victim’s debit card.
Thomas's preliminary hearing is scheduled for December 29, 2025.
District Attorney Larry Krasner commended community efforts to reduce homicides, while Assistant District Attorney Ashley Toczylowski stressed the commitment to accountability.