Acclaimed actress/director Regina King is currently experiencing a parent’s worst nightmare. Her only child with her ex-husband record producer Ian Alexander Sr. has died by suicide. Their son, Ian Alexander Jr., who worked as a DJ, had just celebrated his 26th birthday on Wednesday, January 19. Gossip blog  LoveBScott was the first to report the news. PEOPLE.com then confirmed the sad news, which broke online late Friday (January 21) after receiving a statement from King which reads: "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." Throughout the years, King would often walk the red carpet with her son standing right by her side. One of the more memorable moments was at the 45th NAACP Image Awards on February 22, 2014. After ending her marriage in 2007, King focused on her role as a single mother, giving Alexander Jr. her undivided attention and support. It was a mutual love and adoration. In honor of his mother’s 50th birthday, Alexander Jr. posted a tribute to King on Instagram writing, “...To have you as my mother is the greatest gift I could ask for. To be all that you are while always having the time to be there, love and support me unconditionally is truly remarkable. The whole marvel universe ain't got shit on you, your the real superhero! Love you mom! This day and everyday YO DAY!!"

According to PEOPLE.com, the mother and son duo are so close, they even have matching tattoos with the words "unconditional love" written in Aramaic. Fans and celebrity friends have already started posting words of condolences for King on social media. We join the sentiment in saying that our deepest sympathies go out to the entire King and Alexander families at this time.