Eminem ally and D-12 member Proof was shot dead in Detroit, Michigan, this morning. Proof - real name Deshaun Holton - was declared dead on arrival at the Conner Creek Medical Center in Detroit after being gunned down at an illegal after-hours club on the city's infamous Eight Mile Road at 4.30 a.m.

D-12 publicist Dennis Dennehy confirmed the fatal shooting in a statement, adding, "Memorial service arrangements are still being made, and his friends and family would appreciate privacy during this difficult time."

A second man, who is yet to be identified, was also caught up in the shooting spree at CCC club and is currently in a critical condition at the city's St. John Hospital after suffering gunshot wounds to the head. A report published on AllHipHop.com speculates he could be fellow D-12 group member Bizarre.

Proof was firm friends with Eminem and served as best man at his second wedding to Kim Mathers in January. He also had a bit part in the movie 8 Mile and was signed to Shady Records.

The shooting marks the second recent firearm attack on Eminem's entourage - rapper Obie Trice was wounded on New Year's Eve while driving along the Lodge Freeway in Detroit.

(This news article provided by World Entertainment News Network)