Convicted Murderer and Former Heroin Dealer Marlon Kelly Dies in Kent Prison Aged 46
Convicted murderer and former drug dealer Marlon Kelly, 46, has died in prison, 14 years into a life sentence for the killing of his friend in South London.
Kelly, who was serving time at HMP Swaleside on the Isle of Sheppey, passed away on 13 June 2025, according to a notice issued by the Prisons and Probation Ombudsman (PPO). The cause of death has not yet been made public.
Serving Life for Brutal South London Murder
Kelly was convicted of the 2010 murder of 31-year-old Anthony Gray, a man he claimed was his “best friend.” A jury found him guilty in 2011 after hearing how he stabbed Gray in the neck during a drug-related dispute and then attempted to flee to Wales with £2,500 in cash.
The sentencing judge condemned Kelly as an “abomination to society” and handed down a life sentence with a minimum term of 25 years. He was not due to be considered for parole until 2036.
Violent Past and Failed Deportation
Kelly, who was originally from Jamaica and known by the street name “Wrecker”, first came to national attention after a 2001 shooting in Battersea. Aged just 18 at the time, he was convicted of possession of a firearm with intent to cause violence after witnesses saw him firing a handgun at a fleeing man. He served six years for the offence.
Following his release, UK Border Agency attempts to deport him were overturned on appeal, allowing him to remain in South London — where he later committed the fatal attack on Mr Gray.
Victim’s Family Reacts
In the aftermath of Kelly’s conviction, Anthony Gray’s mother, Hermine Caeser, described the experience of sitting through the trial as devastating.
“It was hurtful beyond belief to hear him call my son his best friend. Sitting through the trial showed me just how heartless he truly was,” she said.
Official Investigation Underway
As with all deaths in custody, an investigation into Kelly’s death is now being carried out by the Prisons and Probation Ombudsman. HMP Swaleside has yet to release a formal comment.
