Rapper Proof killed in Detroit nightclub shooting, publicist says

DETROIT (AP) _ Proof, a member of rap group D12 and a close friend of Eminem, was shot to death early Tuesday at a nightclub along Eight Mile Road, a publicist said. <br/><br/>The death of Proof _ whose

Tuesday, April 11th 2006, 10:24 am

By: News On 6

DETROIT (AP) _ Proof, a member of rap group D12 and a close friend of Eminem, was shot to death early Tuesday at a nightclub along Eight Mile Road, a publicist said.

The death of Proof _ whose real name is Deshaun Holton _ was confirmed by Dennis Dennehy, the publicist for D12's label, Interscope Records.

``Memorial service arrangements are still being made, and his friends and family would appreciate privacy during this difficult time,'' Dennehy said in a statement.

Proof was the best man at Eminem's wedding in January and often appeared alongside the superstar rapper at concerts and public appearances. He also appeared in the film ``8 Mile.''

Detroit police wouldn't confirm that Proof was killed, but said two people were shot in the head _ one fatally _ early Tuesday at a nightclub on Eight Mile.

An argument at the CCC nightclub escalated into gunshots, Detroit police spokesman James Tate said.

Wende Berry, a spokeswoman for St. John Health System, said Holton was dead on arrival at St. John Conner Creek, an outpatient treatment facility. Berry confirmed that he had a gunshot wound.