Michael David Fuller, also known as Blaze Foley, was a 39-year-old white male who died on February 1, 1989, in Austin, Texas. Blaze Foley was a country music singer-songwriter, poet, and artist active in Austin's music scene. He was born on December 18, 1949, in Malvern, Arkansas, and grew up in San Antonio, Texas. Foley was known for his deep voice, honest lyrics, and solid picking style.
He performed at various venues in Austin, including the Austin Outhouse, where he recorded some of his best work.
On the night of February 1, 1989, Blaze Foley was at a house in the Bouldin Creek neighborhood of Austin when he was shot in the chest and killed by Carey January, the son of Foley's friend Concho January. Foley had confronted Carey January, accusing him of stealing his father's veteran pension and welfare checks. The confrontation escalated, leading to Foley being shot. Foley identified his assailant before being taken to the hospital, where he later died during surgery.
Carey January, a 39-year-old black male, was arrested and charged with murder. He was held on a $25,000 bond. The case garnered attention due to Foley's involvement in the Austin music scene and his friendships with other musicians, such as Townes Van Zandt. Foley's death was a significant loss to the music community, and his legacy has been kept alive through tribute albums and songs written in his honor.
