Although most of the east coast prepared for Hurricane Sandy, which took over all the news headlines over the weekend, another unfortunate incident transpired. Natina Reed, 1/3 of R&B group Blaque was struck and killed in a mysterious traffic accident in Atlanta.
It was reported that while walking across Lawrenceville Highway near Hamilton Road in Atlanta, the 32 year was hit by a car and pronounced dead at Gwinnett Medical Center at 10:59PM Friday. The driver of the car is not being charged as based on evidence the event is being ruled an ‘accident’ not a hit and run as originally speculated. According to reports police are still looking for information about what happened and why Reed would have been walking in traffic.
Her fellow group mates Brandi Williams and Shamari Fears-Devoe issued the following statement:
“We are devastated by the loss of our group member, sister and friend Natina Reed. Because of the enormous support of Blaque fans and our love for each another, Blaque officially reunited this fall and we were in the process of working on a new album and a reality show. Natina continuously embodied the pioneering spirit of Blaque and her undeniable creativity touched the hearts of fans everywhere. Natina was a mother, sister, accomplished songwriter, artist and friend. We ask for your prayers at this time for Natina’s family. She will forever be missed and her global influence eternally felt. We thank God for the experiences we shared.”
This incident is particularly more devastating considering that she leaves behind a 10 year old son she shares with rapper Kurupt. Also her 33rd birthday would have been this coming Sunday. Even more disturbing is that the singer and her group were discovered and mentored by her cousin Lisa ‘Left Eye’ Lopes (TLC) who also tragically died in a car accident in 2002.
In tribute to Natina we will dedicate our Throwback Thursday to none other than Blaque!