South Jersey 'The Voice' Star Shot And Killed Following Florida Concert
PHILADELPHIA (CBS) -- A singer from southern New Jersey who gained fame as a contestant on "The Voice" was shot and killed following a performance Friday night in Orlando, Florida.
Twenty-two-year-old Christina Grimmie was signing autographs after a show with the band Before You Exit at The Plaza Live when she was approached by a man armed with a pair of handguns. Orlando police spokeswoman Wanda Miglio says the attack happened quickly.
Orlando police released the name of the suspect as Kevin James Loibl.
"The suspect walked up and shot Christina," Miglio said. "At that point we know that her brother tackled the suspect and that's when the suspect shot himself."
Grimmie was rushed to the hospital in critical condition and later died. The gunman also died.
Miglio said she did not know what security was like at the venue, or how the shooter got two guns inside.
Grimmie was a native of Marlton and a graduate of Cherokee High School. She finished third on Season Six of "The Voice" in 2014 where she competed as a member of Adam Levine' team.
The show paid tribute to Grimmie via Twitter.
Grimmie had been trying to carve out a solo career for herself. Her videos on YouTube of her renditions of hit songs have garnered millions of views.
Her cover of Adele's 'Hello' had 2-million views on YouTube.
Grimmie performed in Philadelphia in March. The Philadelphia Music Alliance issued a statement on her death.
"We are horrified and deeply saddened over the unconscionable murder last night of Christina Grimmie," said PMA Board Chairman Alan Rubens. "She was poised to be one of the Philadelphia area's next global music ambassadors, but her star shined all too briefly. Christina was struck down at a terribly young age, doing what she loved best. We're extremely proud to have called her our own, and she will not be forgotten. We extend our heartfelt condolences to her family, friends, and fans as we cherish her memory."
