The recent loss of two prominent figures has left a significant void in the Western New York LGBTQ+ community. News sources revealed that the co-proprietor of The Good Stuff art gallery in Buffalo, Michael ‘Mickey’ Harmon, and his life partner, Jordan Celotto, were discovered tragically deceased at their Allentown residence. Officials reported a cause of death due to significant bodily harm, and are treating the incident as a double homicide case.
Accordance to WGRZ, a suspicious individual was found in the vicinity of the home, injured by a knife. They are currently receiving treatment at ECMC Hospital while under law enforcement’s custody. Buffalo’s Interim Mayor, Chris Scanlon, conveyed to WKBW that preliminary investigations suggest that the horrendous act wasn’t rooted in hate crime, but assured that all potential clues will be diligently pursued.
Both Harmon, at 40 years of age, and Celotto, aged 37, held important roles as artists and community advocates. Harmon had a close association with the Allentown Association and was recognized for his illustrations of Buffalo’s historical buildings and notable sites. He also painted murals which resonated with LGBTQ+ narratives.
New York State Senator Sean Ryan, reflecting on Harmon’s touch in the community, declared, ‘Mickey was a central figure in Buffalo’s LGBTQ+ community, a gifted artist, and a committed leader in Allentown.’ He made a conspicuous impact in the society with his artwork, leadership, and commitment.
Celotto’s charisma was captivating as well, marked by the welcoming, joyous aura he emanated amidst his friends and peers. His footprints were evidently stamped in Remedy House and also on the dance floor where he unfailingly spread happiness.
The news of their deaths has weighed heavily on the hearts of community members. An acknowledgment from the Allentown Association read, ‘Mickey’s influence can be seen all over Allentown. His imprints will continue to live in his art, his community events, and in the hearts of everyone who knew him as he traversed our neighborhood.
Mickey diligently served our Board for seven years, devoting his skills and time to make our community a special place. Guided by Mickey and Jordan’s examples of life filled with love and communal harmony, we shall navigate this challenging period.’ It was a testament to both men’s legacy of stewardship and unity.
Their associates and loved ones assembled Wednesday night at Twenty Six Allen, a local pub where Celotto often provided the music, and Harmon was known to grace the dance floor. This gathering was not only a platform for sharing grief but also to celebrate their lives, contributions, and positive energy.
During the vigil, Fillmore District council member Mitch Nowakowski made a heartfelt pronouncement, ‘I adamantly oppose associating Mickey and Jordan’s memory with these appalling events.’
His compelling speech was echoed by many, ‘I want to stress that these individuals were more than this tragic incident. They were artists and integral parts of the Allentown community, who improved it with their presence and relentless effort.’
Nowakowski recounted his professional interactions with them, praising their work after he took office, ‘Ever since I joined office, they’ve worked with me. When you observe and appreciate Allentown, its lively atmosphere, its festivals, its art, remember them because that’s precisely who they were.’
He concluded by saying, ‘Their legacy should never be tarnished by the horrendous crime that befell them. Rather, they should be remembered for their contributions to the community, their love for arts and their unmatched zeal for life.’
The community is left reckoning with the loss of two cherished members. The bereaved have found strength and solace in coming together, celebrating the lives of Mickey and Jordan, and honoring their deep and lasting influence.
Mickey and Jordan’s untimely departure has initiated a shared grief in the community, but through this sorrow surfaces an overwhelming appreciation for their profound contributions. That might be the truest testament to the lives they led – individuals who made their surroundings better and whose impact will continue to be felt for years to come.
Their indelible mark on the community echoes a sense of unity, love, and acceptance. Their legacy goes on – in the colorful art that adorns the city walls, in the joy they spread on dance floors and in the hearts of everyone they touched.
To endure this sudden loss, the community reiterates its adherence to the values that Mickey and Jordan embodied so vibrantly – Love, acceptance, and a shared vision for a better world. Their lives, though tragically cut short, will continue to inspire and inform the spirit of Allentown and beyond.