NEW YORK, N.Y.–An attempt at an “exorcism” by her boyfriend has left Edena Hines, 33, the step-granddaughter of Mississippi native Morgan Freeman dead outside her New York City apartment. She was stabbed 16 times Sunday morning, said police.
Hines’ grandmother was Freeman’s first wife.
The boyfriend, Lamar Davenport, 30, was arrested where the stabbing happened and was taken to Columbia Presbyterian Hospital for psychiatric evaluation. He had not been charged with the killing.
“Get out, devils! I cast you out, devils! In the name of Jesus Christ, I cast you out!” is what Davenport reportedly screamed as he attacked and stabbed Hines, reported the New York Post, quoting neighbor George Hudacko, who witnessed the killing from his apartment window and called 911.
“The girl was making a lot of noise, screaming,” Hudacko told the Post, adding. “I called 911 — I was begging them to come.
When police got to the scene Davenport was continuing to brutalize Hines’ body, making stabbing motions with his fist, even as the knife was stuck in her chest.
Davenport went by the name “Lyric” and was an aspiring rapper, with six prior arrests, including one for drug possession.
“The world will never know her artistry and talent, and how much she had to offer. Her friends and family were fortunate enough to have known what she meant as a person. Her star will continue to shine bright in our hearts, thoughts and prayers. May she rest in peace,” said Freeman in a statement.
“I want to acknowledge the tremendous outpouring of love and support my family has received regarding the tragic and senseless passing of my granddaughter Edena Hines. Thank you from the bottom of my heart. -M,” said Freeman on Facebook.
Freeman maintains part-time residence in Charleston, Miss., near where he grew up.
