REGINA King’s son Ian Alexander Jr has taken his own life just days before his 26th birthday.
The Harder They Fall actress, 51, confirmed her only son’s death in a heartbreaking tribute.
In a statement sent to PEOPLE, she said: "Our family is devastated at the deepest level by the loss of Ian.
"He is such a bright light who cared so deeply about the happiness of others.
“Our family asks for respectful consideration during this private time. Thank you."
The publication confirmed he had taken his own life.
Ian was King's only child, whom she shared with her ex-husband, record producer Ian Alexander Sr.
King had a close bond with her son who would go with her to events, calling her “super mom” at the 2019 Golden Globes.
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The Oscar winner previously revealed a close bond with her son — an artist and DJ — with the pair getting matching tattoos reading “unconditional love”.
In a recent interview, she described their relationship as the most “fulfilling” thing.
In honor of his mom's 50th birthday last year, Ian posted a message on Instagram.
He wrote: "Happy birthday to my co, so extremely proud of you and inspired by your love, artistry, and gangsta!
“To be able to watch you take this lifetime by its neck and make it yours is something I will forever be grateful for."
You’re not alone
SUICIDE is the 10th leading cause of death in the US, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Leading Causes of Death Report from 2018.
There were "more than two and half times as many suicides" in the US than there were homicides, according to the report.
For people ages 10 and 34, suicide was the "second leading cause of death" and the fourth for individuals ages 35 to 54.
Suicide is a vital health concern in the U.S. It affects all genders, races and ages.
This is why The-Sun.com launched the You're Not Alone campaign.
The campaign calls on readers to discuss their mental health issues with their family, friends and health professionals. We can all pitch in to help out others who may be suffering and help save lives.
If you are struggling to cope, you are not alone. There are many free and confidential programs in the US aimed to help those who are struggling with their mental health.
If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health problems, these organizations are here to provide support:
- National Suicide Prevention Lifeline, www.suicidepreventionlifeline.org, 1-800-273-TALK
- Crisis Text Line, www.crisistextline.org, Text HOME to 741741
- Veterans Crisis Hotline, www.veteranscrisisline.net, 1-800-273-8255
- Trevor Project, www.thetrevorproject.org, 1-866-488-7386
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