Lamar Davenport Charged With Murder In Death Of Morgan Freeman’s Granddaughter; Witnesses Claim Stabbing Was Exorcism Attempt

The man who police say is responsible for the death of Morgan Freeman’s step-granddaughter has been charged with second-degree murder. Lamar Davenport, 30, allegedly fatally stabbed E’Dena Hines, 33, early Sunday morning outside Hines’ home in the Washington Heights section of Manhattan in New York City.

Police found Hines at 3 a.m. EDT lying in the street outside her home with multiple stab wounds to her torso. She was rushed to Harlem Hospital, where she was pronounced dead, New York City's WNBC-TV reported.

Police arrested Davenport on the scene, where he was found kneeling over Hines’ body. Witnesses told Fox News that Davenport, who was in a relationship with Hines, appeared to be stabbing Hines in a distressing attempt at an exorcism an hour after the couple had been heard fighting. One witness, George Hudacko, told the news outlet he had heard Davenport shouting, "Get out, devils! I cast you out, devils! In the name of Jesus Christ, I cast you out!" Davenport was taken to Columbia-Presbyterian Hospital, where he was to undergo a psychological evaluation.

Oscar-winning actor Freeman released a statement Sunday to express his grief over his step-granddaughter’s tragic death.

"The world will never know her artistry and talent, and how much she had to offer,” said Freeman, as People magazine reported. “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."

Freeman added to the statement on Facebook, thanking fans for their support.

“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,” Freeman wrote. “Thank you from the bottom of my heart.”

The investigation into Hines' death is ongoing.