New York: Oscar-winning actor Morgan Freeman's step-granddaughter was stabbed to death in an attempt of exorcism at the hands of her ranting boyfriend, according to witnesses.
Edena Hines, 33, whose grandmother was Freeman's first wife, was stabbed 16 times near her apartment building in Manhattan on early Sunday, reported New York Post. "Get out, devils! I cast you out, devils! In the name of Jesus Christ, I cast you out!" the killer yelled as he plunged a hunting knife into Hines' chest, according to George Hudacko, who witnessed the attack from his apartment window in Washington Heights.
"The girl was making a lot of noise, screaming," Hudacko said, adding. "I called 911and I was begging them to come." Hines' live-in boyfriend, Lamar Davenport, 30, was in the throes of a drug-induced psychosis when he came after her, police sources said.
"Jesus Christ is born!" he shouted maniacally over her body. The police officers had to physically restrain Davenport from continuing his attack and further brutalising Hines' lifeless body.
?Police have charged him with second-degree murder early Monday after he underwent a psychiatric evaluation at Columbia-Presbyterian Hospital. Davenport was described by law enforcement sources as an aspiring rapper who performed under the name Lyric. He is the father of two young children, neither with Hines, and has a history of abusing drugs and alcohol. He has six prior arrests, including for marijuana possession and petty larceny.
Mourning her demise, Freeman, 78, reflected on her talent and how she touched the lives of those who knew her. "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," his statement read.
Freeman called Hines' death "senseless and tragic" in a Facebook post. "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," he wrote.
