Suspect in killing of Nicki Minaj crew member held on charges

PHILADELPHIA (WPVI) -- The suspect in the stabbing that killed a member of Nicki Minaj's tour group is being held on murder and related charges.

A judge handed down that decision during a preliminary hearing on Tuesday for 31-year-old Pierce Boykin.

He is accused in the Feb. 18th death of 29-year-old Devon Pickett of New York.

Musician Marcus Kincy testified during the hearing. He says Boykin's group became upset when Pickett made sure a female bartender got to her car safely.

The defense says there's no evidence from testimony that Boykin delivered the fatal stab wounds during the fight.

Kincy says he, Pickett and other Minaj crew members had gathered in Philadelphia to rehearse for her spring European tour.

Kincy plays piano and says Pickett was a beloved technician who always strived to improve.

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The Associated Press contributed to this report.