Former America’s Got Talent Contestant Arrested in Death of 4-Year-Old Nephew

Deshundre “Dre” Vinson, 22, a former America’s Got Talent contestant and member of the R&B group CitiLimitz, has been arrested in Chattanooga, Tennessee, in connection with the death of his 4-year-old nephew.

Vinson was taken into custody on September 2, 2026, and faces one count of first-degree murder and three counts of aggravated child abuse.

The charges stem from an incident at the swimming pool of an apartment complex in Chattanooga on August 16. According to investigative records, the young boy remained underwater for approximately nine minutes before he was discovered and pulled from the pool.

Emergency responders provided medical treatment, and the child was transported to a hospital. Despite efforts to save him, he died approximately five days later.

Investigators allege that Vinson was responsible for supervising the boy and other children at the time of the incident. Authorities further allege that he allowed the children to go to the apartment complex pool without adult supervision.

The circumstances surrounding the boy’s time in the water and the events leading up to his death are now at the center of the criminal investigation.

Vinson’s arrest has also drawn attention because of his previous involvement in the entertainment industry. He had appeared as a contestant on America’s Got Talent and was a member of the R&B group CitiLimitz before facing the criminal allegations.

A judge has set Vinson’s bail at $750,000. His next court hearing is scheduled for September 8, 2026, when the case is expected to proceed through the next stage of the legal process.

The charges against Vinson are allegations, and they have not been proven in court. He is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.

The investigation remains ongoing as authorities continue examining the circumstances surrounding the child’s drowning and the supervision provided at the time of the incident.

Source: People.com