Rapper Martell Derouen, whose cousin is Beyoncé

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.