Martell Derouen, a 34-year-old male of African American ethnicity, was a rising rapper and producer known professionally as "Kardone." He was also a cousin of pop superstar Beyoncé. On January 26, 2021, Martell was found dead in his San Antonio apartment. The circumstances surrounding his death were initially unclear, but it was later revealed that he had been shot in the head.
The investigation into Martell's death led to the arrest of Sasha Skare, a 21-year-old woman from Austin.
Sasha was Martell's girlfriend at the time, and she was charged with his murder. According to her testimony during the trial, Sasha claimed that she had taken Martell's handgun during an argument to protect herself. She stated that the gun accidentally discharged when she returned to the apartment to retrieve her belongings, striking Martell through the door.
However, evidence presented during the trial painted a different picture. Surveillance footage showed Sasha walking through the apartment complex with the gun shortly before Martell's body was discovered. Additionally, a 911 call made by Sasha, in which she falsely claimed to be Martell's wife, raised further suspicion. The prosecution argued that Sasha had deliberately lured Martell toward the door and fired the gun at him.
In September 2023, a jury found Sasha Skare guilty of murder. She was sentenced to 55 years in prison for her role in Martell's death. The case drew significant media attention due to Martell's connection to Beyoncé and the dramatic nature of the crime.
Martell Derouen's death was a tragic loss for his family, friends, and the music community. He was remembered as a talented artist and a loving family man who left behind a legacy of love and creativity.
