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Police and neighbors were left shocked after actor Peter Greene was found unresponsive in his Lower East Side apartment on Friday, with signs of injury and a puzzling handwritten note beside him. The 60-year-old, known for villainous turns in films, was pronounced dead at the scene as investigators began piecing together what happened.
What officials and neighbors reported from the scene
Officers arrived at a Clinton Street residence in the early afternoon. According to neighbors, the sight inside the apartment was disturbing.
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- Position of the body: Greene was reportedly discovered lying face down.
- Visible injuries: Witnesses described facial trauma and blood at the scene.
- Time and response: Emergency responders found him unresponsive at about 3:25 p.m.
Authorities told reporters they did not initially suspect foul play. The exact cause of death will be determined following an examination by the medical examiner.
Handwritten message found near the actor
A handwritten note placed near Greene’s body added a strange detail to the investigation. The message read: “I’m still a Westie.”
The phrase invokes the Westies, an Irish-American organized group tied to Hell’s Kitchen in the 1970s. Detectives are treating the note as part of their evidence while they work to establish context and motive.
Film roles and a career remembered
Greene earned recognition for playing intense, often menacing characters. Colleagues and fans remembered his gritty screen presence.
Notable films and performances
- The Mask — played mobster Dorian Tyrell opposite Jim Carrey.
- Training Day — supporting role in the gritty crime drama.
- Blue Streak — showcased his versatility in a mainstream comedy-thriller.
- Independent work — credits include Laws of Gravity and Clean, Shaven.
Industry figures praised Greene’s range, calling his work powerful and memorable.
Reactions from managers, filmmakers and friends
Greene’s longtime manager confirmed the actor’s death and offered a personal remembrance. In statements, associates described him as a warm, generous colleague.
- Manager’s words: He remembered Greene as a “terrific guy” and a close friend.
- Director response: Kerry Mondragón, who had scheduled Greene for a small thriller titled Mascots, was reportedly deeply upset.
- Planned projects: Greene had been set to shoot with Mickey Rourke on the independent film.
Family details and next steps in the inquiry
Greene is survived by a 16-year-old son, Ryder. Authorities say the investigation is ongoing and that the medical examiner will publish a cause of death after review.
Police have indicated no immediate signs of criminal activity, but standard protocols require a full inquiry. Officials are expected to release further details once the autopsy is complete and interviews are processed.












