A member of Eminem's rap collective D12 has been killed in a nightclub shooting in Detroit.
Proof's real name was Deshaun Holton
Proof, whose real name was Deshaun Holton, was shot at a club on Eight Mile Road, made famous in Eminem's autobiographical film 8 Mile.
He was a longtime friend of Eminem and had acted as his best man at his wedding in January.
A publicist for D12's record label Interscope said arrangements were being made for a memorial service.
Police said that two people had been shot in the head, one fatally, after an argument broke out at the CCC nightclub.
Proof originally put forward the idea of forming D12 with friends he met at Detroit clothes store Hip-Hop Shop.
Despite Eminem's huge solo success he continued to record the group, which released albums D12 World and Devil's Night.
Proof, second left, was a founder member of D12
The group scored a number two hit in the UK with Purple Hills in 2001 - which had its name changed from Purple Pills to ensure radio play - and My Band in 2004.
Proof made an appearance in the critically acclaimed 8 Mile and is credited on the award-winning soundtrack.
His best man duties came at Eminem's second wedding to Kim Mathers. The pair have since announced they are to divorce again after less than three months of marriage.
Obie Trice, who is signed to Eminem's label, was recently shot at while driving in Detroit. He was wounded in the attack, while his girlfriend remained unhurt.