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London’s Metropolitan Police are searching for three men in connection with the unexpected death of legendary drag queen Heklina in Soho, London.

Heklina, whose real name was Steven Grygelko, was a well-known drag performer, celebrated both in the U.K. and the U.S.. She was found unresponsive at a residential property in Soho Square on 3 April 2023 by fellow drag artist Peaches Christ (Joshua Grannell) and was later pronounced dead by paramedics at age 54.

The Met Police launched an investigation into Grygelko’s unexpected passing and, after reviewing CCTV footage, discovered that three men were at the flat in the early hours of the morning before Heklina’s death.

Authorities have now released images of the men and urged them—or anyone who recognises them—to come forward to help establish what happened.

Detective Chief Inspector Dean Purvis from the Central West Command Unit said:

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“Our thoughts are with Steven’s family and friends who still have a lot of unanswered questions about what happened to him.”

“We know that the three men in the CCTV images were at the flat in the early hours of 3 April 2023. I am asking them to contact police. We need to establish what happened, and how Steven was when they left.”

“If you recognise any of the men, I would encourage you to let us know who they are.”

Following the tragic news, Peaches Christ (Grannell) expressed her devastation in a heartfelt Facebook post:

“I am shocked and horrified to bring this news to you. I am living in a real-life nightmare… This morning, in London, England, I went to collect my dear friend Heklina, who is co-starring with me in Mommie Queerest, and found her dead.”

“I do not know the cause of death yet. I know this is shocking news and I am beyond stunned, but I wanted to let folks know what has happened. Heklina is not just my best friend, but a beloved icon of our community.”

A Drag Legend Remembered

Heklina was a U.S.-born drag legend, widely respected for her influence in the drag and LGBTQ+ community. She was in London to perform in Mommie Queerest, a parody of the cult classic Mommie Dearest, alongside Grannell at Soho Theatre in April 2023.

As the investigation continues, authorities are urging anyone with information to come forward to help bring answers to Heklina’s friends, family, and community.

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