Kocis, who owned Cobra Video and used the name Bryan Phillips, was stabbed 28 times in his torso and body, with his neck slashed so severely police said he was nearly decapitated. His body was found after local firefighters responded to a fire call at his Pennsylvania home late last week.
State police investigating the murder said they did not know the name of the model, only his pseudonym — Drake.
A police spokesman said Drake was not a suspect, but rather someone that the police “want to talk with.”
The unidentified model is believed to be a resident of Allentown or Philadelphia.
The photograph and model’s name came to light when police discovered an email Kocis had sent to an associate detailing plans to meet with a new model — Drake — the night of his murder.
Investigators believe Kocis knew his killer because they found no signs of forced entry.
Despite the charred remains of Kocis’ home, police said they have been able to locate key pieces of evidence, including the knife they believe the killer used.
Initially, many close to the case speculated that Brent Corrigan, an underage model who rose to prominence while working for Cobra, was involved in Kocis’ murder.
A legal battle between Corrigan and Kocis followed in the wake of revelations that the model was underage when he made his Cobra debut. Kocis was forced to pull several titles featuring Corrigan.
Responding to the rumors, Corrigan issued a statement.
“In light of the tragic events that took place last week and due to the extreme sensitivity and its nature, I have been advised by my attorneys and law enforcement officials in charge of the investigation not to make public comments or statements regarding this very sad and senseless crime,” Corrigan said.
“When I am again able, I will address the issues surrounding this terrible tragedy. Contrary to what others may have written, we had finalized a settlement with Cobra Video and Bryan regarding the civil lawsuit.”
