Prince’s Brother and Former Head of Security Dead at 52
According to reports, Prince's brother, and former head of security, Duane Nelson has died. While very little information is known regarding Nelson's death, Prince's drummer and longtime collaborator Sheila E. tweeted to confirm the unfortunate news that Nelson was found dead in his apartment on Sunday. He was 52.
"Prayers go out to Prince's family for the loss of his brother Duane who was an awesome man," Sheila E. tweeted, along with a message from Nelson's sister Tyka. "All Glory & Honor 2 God - We Thank you from the bottom of our hearts for all of the kind words, emails, etc. of condolences. My brother Duane has gone to be with God-He is in a better place. Please respect our Family's privacy at this time of mourning ~ Tyka."
Duane Nelson was Prince's older brother, although he graduated Minneapolis's Central High School in 1976 -- the same year as the eccentric singer. Both brothers played on the school's basketball team, however Duane was said to be the more "athletically enthusiastic" of the two.
In 1994, Prince changed his name to a symbol, and Duane was appointed the head of his struggling Paisley Park company, recording studio and label, NPG Records. The cause and circumstances regarding his death are not yet known.