The Western New York community is mourning the tragic loss of Michael “Mickey” Harmon, a beloved queer activist and artist, who was killed alongside his partner, Jordan Celotto, in their Allentown home on March 4, 2025.
Mickey Harmon, 40, was a prominent figure in Buffalo’s Allentown neighborhood, known for his vibrant artwork and unwavering commitment to LGBTQ+ advocacy. His creative endeavors not only beautified the community but also served as a platform for social commentary and change. Harmon’s art often reflected his experiences and the broader struggles of the LGBTQ+ community, making him a cherished voice among peers and allies alike.
His partner, Jordan Celotto, 37, shared Harmon’s passion for community engagement. Together, they were integral to numerous initiatives aimed at fostering inclusivity and support within the LGBTQ+ community. Their home was a sanctuary for many—a place where art, activism, and acceptance converged.
The tragic incident occurred at their residence on St. Louis Place. A concerned friend, noticing one of them had not shown up for work, visited their home and encountered a man with a knife, prompting an immediate call to 911. Buffalo Police apprehended the 35-year-old suspect, who sustained self-inflicted injuries during the incident and was subsequently hospitalized under police supervision.
Acting Buffalo Mayor Chris Scanlon expressed profound sorrow over the loss, emphasizing the significant impact Harmon and Celotto had on the Allentown and LGBTQ+ communities. He noted that, at this stage, there is no indication that the crime was motivated by hate, but assured that all leads would be thoroughly investigated.
The news of their untimely deaths has sent shockwaves through the community. Friends and neighbors remember Harmon and Celotto as pillars of strength and creativity. Jen White, a close friend, remarked, “Allentown will never be the same. Buffalo will never be the same. We will come together. We will mourn Mickey and Jordan, and we will do them proud in their absence.”
In solidarity, Rochester LGBTQ+ Together, an organization dedicated to supporting and empowering the LGBTQ+ community in the Rochester area, expressed their condolences. They acknowledged the profound loss felt across Western New York, highlighting Harmon’s contributions to art and activism.
Vigils and memorials are being organized to honor the lives and legacies of Harmon and Celotto. These gatherings aim to celebrate their contributions, mourn their loss, and reinforce the community’s commitment to the values they championed—love, acceptance, and resilience.
As investigations continue, the community remains united in grief and determination, vowing to uphold the spirit of activism and creativity that Mickey Harmon and Jordan Celotto embodied.