The Tragic Death Of Pharrell's Cousin
Musician and producer Pharrell Williams is speaking out after his cousin, Donovon, was killed in one of the three Virginia Beach shootings that took place on March 26, 2021, per The Daily Mail. The Virginia Beach Police Department's Twitter account released information about the shootings the following day and revealed that Donovan was one of two victims that died. He passed away at the age of 25.
According to E! Online, the other victim was Deshayla Harris, who died at 28 years old and was most known for starring in the reality television series Bad Girls Club. She was killed during the second shooting that happened in the 300 block of 19th Street, while Donovan was shot during the third. The first shooting took place in the 2000 block of Atlantic Avenue. No deaths occurred, but several people were left injured.
As reported by E! Online, three people have been arrested for allegedly being involved in the first shooting — Ahmon Jahree Adams, 22, of Chesapeake, Va.; Nyquez Tyyon Baker, 18, of Virginia Beach, Va.; and Devon Maurice Dorsey Jr. , 20, of Virginia Beach.
Williams has since taken to social media to share some touching words. Keep reading to find out what he said.
Pharrell described his cousin as a 'bright light'
Pharrell Williams took to Instagram on March 29, 2021 to honor his cousin, Donovon, and shared some touching words while attaching a snapshot of him.
"The loss of these lives is a tragedy beyond measure. My cousin Donovon was killed during the shootings," the "Freedom" hitmaker said. "He was a bright light and someone who always showed up for others. It is critical my family and the other victims' families get the transparency, honesty, and justice they deserve. Virginia Beach is the epitome of hope and tenacity and, as a community, we will get through this and come out even stronger," Williams continued.
The N.E.R.D frontman also posted the tribute to his Twitter account and received a lot of love from fans. "My heart breaks for you and your family and the families of the victims. Praying the answers come and that peace comes as you and your family navigate this difficult time. Sending love and light to all of you," one user tweeted. "You and your family have my condolences. I pray that truth and justice will prevail!!" another person wrote.