Doug Kiker, an 'American Idol' contestant, was hospitalized days before his death. He was dubbed "The Singing Garbage Man" in Season 18.
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According to a report by TMZ, a pedestrian walked by Kiker on the street and was so concerned by his appearance that they called Emergency Services. Law enforcement told the outlet that an individual took one look at Kiker before dialing 911. The passerby reportedly said that he looked like he was experiencing a drug overdose.
Paramedics picked up Kiker and transported him to a hospital, but he died five days later. TMZ also reports that the drugs caused Kiker to have a heart attack, according to one of their sources. However, an investigation is still ongoing, and authorities have not revealed the official cause of death. He is survived by two children he had with his ex-fiancée, Valerie Cook.
Doug Kiker's Family Confirmed His Passing On Social Media
Doug's death was confirmed by his sisters on
Facebook on Wednesday night. Angel Evans posted a tribute, saying, "It is with a heavy heart that we have to announce the passing of my brother Douglas Kiker," the post reads. "He was sooo loved and will be missed by so many! Your singing with the Angel's now Bubba. Please pray for our family as we go [through] this very difficult time."Donna Kiker Carrillos-Ramirez posted a
separate message about her brother: "Today I got the call that no one wants to get. We lost an amazing person today. He had the biggest smile and knew how to make you laugh. I know I didn't raise him, but I never stopped loving him. My parents did an amazing job with him. Douglas Kiker, you will forever be missed. Fly high. Say hey to grandma."Donna has also set up a GoFundMe to help with funeral expenses in a post titled 'Help Us Lay Our Loved One to Rest.'
In the post, Donna explains that they want to 'honor Douglas's memory' and give him a proper farewell. "Any contribution, no matter the amount, will go directly to the funeral costs and allow us to navigate this difficult time without the added financial burden."
