In Loving Memory of Ray Crumbie, “Big Ray” | “Ray J” A Gentle Giant Gone Too Soon

In Loving Memory of Ray Crumbie, “Big Ray” | “Ray J” A Gentle Giant Gone Too Soon 

DETROIT, Mich. — Detroit is a city built on strength, resilience, and heart — a community that knows how to rise again and again in the face of hardship. But every now and then, a tragedy strikes so deeply that time itself seems to pause. That is the feeling gripping the city today following the heartbreaking loss of Ray Crumbie, affectionately known to many as “Big Ray” or “Ray J.”, one of two lives taken far too soon in a double fatal shooting on Detroit’s west side.

According to the Detroit Police Department, the shooting occurred late Saturday night near the intersection of West Warren Avenue and Southfield Freeway, in an area familiar to many longtime residents. Officers responded to reports of multiple shots fired shortly after 11:30 p.m., where they discovered two individuals suffering from gunshot wounds. Despite the swift response of emergency crews, both victims — including 38-year-old Ray Crumbie — were pronounced dead at the scene. The second victim has not yet been publicly identified as detectives continue to notify next of kin and gather details about what led up to the deadly incident.

Investigators say the shooting appears to have stemmed from an altercation that escalated into gunfire, though the full circumstances remain under investigation. Police are reviewing nearby surveillance footage and urging anyone with information to come forward. No arrests have been announced.

For those who knew Ray Crumbie, news of his death has sent shockwaves through Detroit’s west side and beyond. Friends, neighbors, and family describe him as a gentle giant — a man whose size was matched only by the size of his heart. “Everybody called him Big Ray for a reason,” said a lifelong friend. “Not just because he was tall or strong, but because his presence was big. His laugh, his love, his energy — when he walked in a room, you felt it.”

Ray was known as someone who could find common ground with anyone, whether it was sharing stories on a front porch, helping out with community events, or mentoring younger kids in the neighborhood. Many recall his deep love for Detroit — the city that raised him — and his constant efforts to give back, whether through volunteering, helping friends in need, or simply offering encouragement to those going through hard times.

“He had that Detroit spirit,” said a cousin. “He’d been through a lot, but he never lost hope. He believed in better days — for himself, for his people, for the city.”

As word of his passing spread across social media, tributes poured in from those whose lives Ray touched. Friends shared old photos, stories, and words of disbelief, calling him a “brother to everyone” and a “real one” who always looked out for others. “You didn’t have to be family for Ray to treat you like family,” one post read. “He had love for everybody.”

A makeshift memorial has already begun to grow near the site of the shooting — candles, flowers, and handwritten messages spelling out “RIP Big Ray” and “Forever in Our Hearts.” Community members have gathered there nightly to light candles, pray, and share memories, finding strength in togetherness amid the grief.

City leaders and local advocates have also spoken out, lamenting the ongoing toll of gun violence that continues to claim lives across Detroit. “Every loss like this is another reminder that behind the statistics are real people — fathers, sons, brothers, friends,” said a local pastor who attended Sunday’s vigil. “Big Ray was loved. He mattered. And this city mourns him.”

For Ray’s family, the pain is immeasurable. Loved ones describe him as a devoted father, son, and friend who worked hard to build a better future for himself and those he loved. “He wasn’t perfect, but he had a good heart,” said one family member through tears. “He just wanted peace — and now we pray he’s finally found it.”

As investigators continue to search for answers, the community’s focus remains on healing and honoring Ray’s legacy. Plans are underway for a candlelight vigil and celebration of life, where friends and family will gather to remember his laughter, his kindness, and the way he made others feel seen and valued.

For Detroit, this tragedy serves as both a heartbreak and a call to action — a reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of unity in the face of loss. “Detroit’s been through a lot,” said a neighbor. “But when something like this happens, we don’t fall apart — we come together. And that’s what Ray would’ve wanted.”

As the city mourns, one truth remains unshakable: Ray Crumbie’s light will not be forgotten. His warmth, his laughter, and his love for others will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.

“Big Ray had a way of making you feel like everything was going to be alright,” a close friend said quietly at the memorial site. “Now, we’ll hold onto that — because even though he’s gone, his spirit is still here with us.”