LINCOLN, Neb. — Performer Jay Hefner was reportedly killed this weekend in Lincoln, according to industry friends and associates.

A fundraiser set up by Hefner’s family says that he was killed “due to a senseless act of gun violence while trying to protect his cousin from physical violence in Lincoln” while visiting his family for a birthday celebration.

There has been an outpouring of condolences on social media from industry colleagues regarding the up-and-coming performer.

This report will be updated as more information becomes available.