Beyoncé’s rapper cousin Martell ‘Kardone’ Derouen shot dead, reports claim
Derouen released his last single in 2020
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Rapper Martell Derouen, whose cousin is Beyoncé, has reportedly been shot dead aged 34.
According to the San Antonio Express-News, Derouen – who raps under the name Kardone – was discovered during a welfare check by police officers on Tuesday (26 January).
Someone had called the police after not hearing from the musician in several days, with officers visiting his apartment around midday.
Maintenance staff helped police access the apartment. Inside, they reportedly found Derouen dead with a gunshot wound.
Born in San Antonio, Derouen spent much of his childhood in Louisiana, and was later signed to Sony-affiliated record label The Orchard.
He released a full length album titled Trunk Bag in 2016, while his last single “Magic” came out in 2020.
Speaking to local news network KSAT, Derouen’s wife said that the musician “didn’t deserve this”.
Local police are said to be searching for 21-year-old Sasha Skare as a suspect, with law enforcement encouraging anyone with information to come forward.
The Independent has approached Beyonce’s representatives for comment.