Community Mourns Beloved Buffalo Gay Couple

By Bobbie Fenno

In a tragic incident that has deeply affected Buffalo's Allentown neighborhood, beloved couple Michael "Mickey" Harmon, 40, and Jordan Celotto, 37, were found dead in their home on March 4. After one of them failed to show up for work, a friend checked in on them, encountered a man holding a knife inside the house, and immediately called 911.

When police arrived, they found Harmon and Celotto dead in their basement. The suspect, 34-year-old Bryan Chiclana, had self-inflicted wounds and was taken to Erie County Medical Center for treatment. Investigators say Chiclana allegedly broke into the home through a basement window and fatally attacked both men with a blunt object.

Authorities are saying they do not believe the attack was a hate crime, nor do they have evidence that Chiclana knew the victims. They are describing the murders as a random, isolated act of violence. Chiclana has been charged with murder and is being held without bail. The investigation is ongoing as authorities work to piece together the full story behind this heartbreaking tragedy.

Harmon was a well-known artist in Buffalo, known for his intricate drawings of historic homes and landmarks, as well as murals celebrating LGBTQ+ themes. He co-owned "The Good Stuff," an art gallery and gift shop in Allentown. Celotto, also an artist and music lover, worked at Remedy House café and frequently DJed at Twenty Six Allen, where Harmon was often seen dancing alongside him.

The devastating loss has sparked an outpouring of grief and support. Friends and local businesses have started fundraisers to help with funeral costs. GoFundMe campaigns have also been set up to cover funeral expenses for Harmon and Celotto.

As Buffalo comes together to honor their memory, the spirit and legacies of Mickey and Jordan will live on in the art, music, and love they brought into the world. In times of tragedy, love and community remain the strongest forces.