WESTLAND, Mich. – A rapper from Highland Park is facing charges in connection with the death of his wife.
According to authorities, Westland police were called to an apartment complex located near the intersection of Newburgh Road and McKinney Drive at about 6 p.m., Sunday, Jan. 7, where they found the body of Kelly Ann Mays, 49, who had been stabbed to death.
Authorities said Jimmie Lee Brown, also known as “Supa Emcee,” turned himself into the Westland Police Department shortly after.
Mays was a well-known domestic violence survivor, activist and poet who found her voice to help others suffering from violence at home. She frequently worked with Haven, a nonprofit group that provides outreach to victims of domestic violence.
Haven CEO Christine Kinal said they are heartbroken over the tragic loss.
“A beautiful poet, survivor, advocate and mother and a truly beautiful soul,” Kinal said. “Kelly Ann Mays played a significant role in touching the lives of those she’s encountered.”
Local 4 had previously covered Brown over the summer as he attempted to recover from a near-fatal car accident three years prior in 2020. The rapper, known for his appearance in Eminem’s movie “8 Mile,” was working to rebuild his life and music after suffering a traumatic brain injury.
Read: The story of a Detroit rapper trying to rediscover himself after losing memory 3 years ago in crash
Brown was charged Wednesday, Jan. 10, with first-degree murder. He remains in custody. He is expected to return to court for his probable cause conference Jan. 25.
If convicted, Brown faces the possibility of life in prison.
Haven has a 24-hour crisis and support line that can be reached at 248-334-1274. More information can be found on Haven’s official website.
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