Ari Clarke, 22, a 2018 Howell High School graduate, was stabbed to death in Ypsilanti on the Fourth of July in what police say was an altercation with a roommate.
“Ari was an extremely talented musician by the name of YoungRilla, and an extremely talented artist,” said Katlin Nicholas, Clarke’s cousin. “He lit up every room he was in. Everyone loved Ari; it was impossible not to. He was so funny and kind. Just such an all around amazing guy.”
Nicholas said he will live on through his music, his family, and his friends.
James Lee Trussell, 20, is charged with open murder in Clarke’s death.
Police are also seeking a second suspect, 19-year-old Kyrah Tate. She is described as a 5-foot, 4 inch tall Black woman weighing 111 pounds, with brown eyes and black hair.
Anyone with information is asked to contact the TIP line at (734) 292-5429.
According to a release from the City of Ypsilanti Police Department, officers were dispatched to the 800 block of Green Road, just west of Leforge Road, on a report of a stabbing.
When they arrived, officers found Clarke with multiple stab wounds to his upper body; they attempted lifesaving measures, but Clarke died at the scene.
The preliminary investigation indicates that Clarke and Trussell were temporary roommates, and the two men got into a verbal argument that escalated to a physical altercation, which led to the stabbing.
A fund has been established to pay for the cost of Clarke’s funeral. Click here to make a donation or for more information.
You can read his obituary by clicking here.
