On a summer afternoon in Albany, New York, the life of Dominique Eley, a 27-year-old Black woman, was tragically cut short. On July 3, 2022, just days before her 28th birthday, Eley was shot multiple times in the torso outside the Ida Yarbrough Apartments on North Pearl Street. Paramedics treated her at the scene before she was transported to Albany Medical Center, where she ultimately succumbed to her injuries.
Known to many by her stage name 'Kay Hollywood,' Dominique was a budding
entrepreneur and a respected music artist in her community. She was the founder of the streetwear brand YRR Clothing Co. and had a growing music career that included opening for the hip-hop artist Cassidy in Brooklyn. A graduate of Albany High School and the New School Center for Media, she was described as a community icon who used her creativity to network with other business owners and give back to her community.
The investigation into her death led to the arrest of 31-year-old Tyshaun Purvis of Troy. Purvis, a repeat felon who had been on parole since March 2022, was indicted on charges of second-degree murder, felony weapon possession, and drug possession. The indictment alleged that Purvis shot Eley and was also found to be in possession of a. 380 caliber pistol and fentanyl with the intent to sell.
In May 2024, following a nearly two-week jury trial, Tyshaun Purvis was found guilty of second-degree murder and the associated weapons and drug charges. In August 2024, he was sentenced to 34 years to life in state prison for the murder of Dominique Eley. During the sentencing, the judge referred to Purvis as a menace to the community. Dominique's family, in their statements, spoke of their profound grief and the immense loss of a young woman who was on her way to becoming a star and was a beloved figure in her community.
