BEYONCÉ’S army of fans have honored her late cousin Martell ‘Kardone’ Derouen, describing him as “so talented” and a “king”.
Budding hip hop artist Martell, 34, was found fatally shot in his apartment in San Antonio, Texas, on Tuesday, according to reports.
The rapper used the stage name Kardone and was signed to a record label affiliated with music giant Sony.
Beyoncé has not spoken publicly about her cousin’s death but tributes have poured in from her fans.
Writing online, one said: “I’m so sorry this happened to you, rest easy king. Just sad!”
Another honored Kardone, saying: “RIP. So young. So talented.”
A third wrote: “Praying for strength for your family.”
Others shared their disbelief at the news, with one commenting: “This doesn’t even seem real. #RIPMartell.”
Another remarked: “Nahhhh this can’t be real.”
Friends of Derouen have also flooded to social media to pay tribute to the upcoming artist.
Brian Mitchell, who owns Fyngermade Studio, told KSAT12: “Kardone was one of those ones who rose and shine bright, brighter than, you know, some of those that was in the room with him.
“He was just a real subtle dude, quiet.”
Mitchell also told the outlet that he would never name-drop that he was supposedly related to Beyoncé.
Cops are now searching for 21-year-old Sasha Skare, who they believe is the suspect of the crime, KSAT reported.
The outlet said that there is an active murder warrant out for Skare.
Anyone with information on Skare’s whereabouts is asked to call SAPD’s homicide unit at 210-207-7635.
