Denise Horsey

SALISBURY, Md. - After going unsolved for nearly two decades, the Salisbury Police Department has announced an arrest in connection to the murder of Denise Horsey in 2006.

According to the Salisbury Police cold case files, officers were called to a home on Naylor St. on April 8, 2006 on reports of a woman screaming for help. There, police found Horsey suffering from numerous stab wounds. Horsey was taken to a nearby hospital but sadly did not survive. She was 40.

Horsey's murder went unsolved for nearly two decades and no arrests were made. 

On Sept. 22, 2025, however, police say they had finally identified and charged a suspect. A Wicomico County Grand Jury indicted Tyrone Leroy Hughey, 43, of Hagerstown, on charges of first and second-degree murder and first and second-degree assault.

Tyrone Hughey

(Salisbury Police Department)

“This investigation reflects the commitment the Salisbury Police Department has to our community,” the Salisbury Police Department said in a statement. “No matter how much time passes, we remain determined to seek justice for victims and their families. This case also stands as a reminder that no one is forgotten or left behind, as demonstrated by the determined investigative work and interagency collaboration of SPD and the willingness of caring community members to assist the Department in its efforts.”

Family members said the announcement brought relief after years without answers. “This is a bittersweet moment for our family, but we are feeling victorious just knowing that the initial process has been made,” said LaToya Deal, Horsey’s niece. Horsey’s daughter, Alisha Taylor, added, “God answered my prayers… it’s just amazing to just know that things are moving forward and she will end up with justice.”

According to court records, Hughey was ordered held without bond on Sept. 24 and has an initial hearing scheduled for Oct. 17.

Anyone with additional information regarding this investigation is asked to contact Salisbury Police at 410-548-3165.

Digital Content Producer

Sean joined WBOC as Digital Content Producer in February 2023. Originally from New Jersey, Sean graduated from Rutgers University with bachelor’s degrees in East Asian Studies and Religion. He has lived in New York, California, and Virginia before he and his wife finally found a place to permanently call home in Maryland. With family in Laurel, Ocean Pines, Berlin, and Captain’s Cove, Sean has deep ties to the Eastern Shore and is thrilled to be working at WBOC serving the community.

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