'American Idol' Winner's Nephew Shot & Killed In North Carolina
American Idol winner Fantasia Barrino has suffered the loss of her nephew, who was just shot and killed in North Carolina this Tuesday, February 13.
As RadarOnline.com has learned from a FOX 8 report, Tyquan Vonricco Washington, 18 was found on a local driveway at 10:54am. He was taken to Moses Cone Hospital in critical condition and pronounced dead later that day.
The teen was both the nephew of singer Fantasia Barrino and the son of recording artist Ricco Barrino.
On Instagram, Ricco wrote a heart wrenching "love letter" to his now-deceased son, saying that he had always been proud of him and always thought he would do great things. While he admitted to reporters that Tyquan had gotten into some trouble as of late, he was working on turning his life around and becoming a better person.
"On this day you became a bigger man when you put on a pair of wings and did what I have yet to do. So you show me your leadership skills. you go join hands with your grandma and kiss for me. You sing loud for me up there," wrote Ricco. "Love dad."
- Blustering 'American Idol' Judge Luke Bryan Has 'Left Show Bosses Seething' After He Killed Chances of Beyoncé Boosting Ratings
- 'Cranky' Katy Perry 'Begging American Idol' Bosses To Give Her Back Her Seat After $15M Mansion Hit By Flood — and Career Tanks
- Miley Cyrus' 'Greedy Salary Demand of More Than $25Million Priced Her Out Of American Idol Job': Cut-Price Carrie Underwood Was 'Second Choice For Struggling Show'
DAILY. BREAKING. CELEBRITY NEWS. ALL FREE.
Ricco Barrino's manager said he and Tyquan's mother are heartbroken by the news of his death.
Fantasia Barrino has yet to comment on her nephew's passing.
We pay for juicy info! Do you have a story for RadarOnline.com? Email us at tips@radaronline.com, or call us at (866) ON-RADAR (667-2327) any time, day or night.