Nicki Minaj devastated over cousin's murder

Jason Merritt / Getty Images file

Nicki Minaj is in mourning. The 26-year-old hip-hop star announced on Twitter that her "precious cousin" was murdered Sunday evening.

updated 7/5/2011 10:05:47 AM ET

Nicki Minaj is in mourning.

The 26-year-old hip-hop star announced on Twitter that her "precious cousin" was murdered Sunday evening.AUDIO: Hear Nicki's single with Jay Sean

"My cousin Nicholas (also goes by Juse) was murdered last night near his home in Brooklyn, New York," Minaj wrote Monday.

Shortly after sharing the devastating news, the "Super Bass" rapper's fans (and stars like Jordin Sparks) expressed their condolences via Twitter.

"Sending love and prayers to you and your family," Sparks, 21, tweeted.

User DovelyMe20 wrote : "I'm so sorry for your loss. May God be with you and your family."PHOTOS: Stars gone too soon

Added user kittykat182010: "I'm so sorry for your loss. Keep your head up baby girl. I will keep you and your family in my prayers. Much love."

Hip-hop star's fans offer condolences via Twitter