HOUSTON – A candlelight vigil was held Monday night for Houston R&B singer JaeRene, who was killed in a wrong-way crash last Wednesday.
The vigil started at 7 p.m. at the Raven Tower (310 North St.) and was hosted by JaeRene’s mentor, the radio personality Kiotti.
There were live performances, tributes, and special guests consisting of artists that have worked closely with the singer. JaeRene’s parents, Lindsay Locke and Charles Chapman, also spoke during the vigil.
Original story: The victim killed in a wrong-way crash Wednesday on Westpark Tollway has been identified as Houston’s R&B singer JaeRene.
The crash happened on Westpark Tollway near Fondren around 2 a.m. when a driver going the wrong way hit a vehicle with four other people in it, investigators said.
Deputies said a female passenger, later identified as 19-year-old Jaelyn “JaeRene” Chapman, in the other vehicle involved died and three other people from that vehicle were transported to the hospital in critical condition.
Investigators said the wrong-way driver was believed to be intoxicated and was charged with one count of intoxication manslaughter and three counts of intoxication assault. He has been identified as Bobby James Brown, 32. Deputies said they believe Brown entered the tollway through an exit ramp near Richmond and Post Oak.
A spokesperson for the Harris County Toll Road Authority said the wrong-way driver warning system was not activated in that area at the time due to construction on Interstate 59. The spokesperson said a deputy ensured the barriers and temporary wrong-way signage is in place nightly, as it was the night of the crash.
The crash is still under investigation.
Lemon-Lime Light Media released the following statement on the passing of Chapman:
“It is with deep sadness that we share the news of the tragic passing of our vibrant Jaelyn “JaeRene” Chapman. We will always remember Jae’s smile, love for her music, talents, community involvement, bubbly personality, and a huge heart. During this time, we ask that you keep her family and loved ones in your thoughts and prayers. She will truly be missed by all of us. In the coming days, we will release additional information on how you can pay your respects to our beloved JaeRene.”
Chapman’s family has made a GoFundMe page to help assist with her final arrangements.
Ador Kitchen and Cocktail released the following statement:
More about JaeRene
She was born and raised in Houston and a self-proclaimed Houston R&B Princess after making her mark on the music scene.
JaeRene was featured on one of Houston’s most requested songs, “H-Town For Real (Remix)”, which featured artists such as Kiotti, Paul Wall, Lil Flip, Kiotti, Trilly Polk, ZRo and several other Houston-based talents.
Funeral arrangements for the R&B singer were released Friday. There will be a candlelight vigil on Monday, April 12 at 7 p.m. at the Raven Tower located at 310 North Street.
The funeral will be held on Tuesday, April 13 at Sagemont Church located at 11300 S Same Houston Pkwy East. A viewing will be held at 10 a.m., followed by a service at 11 a.m.
The family says the funeral will be open to the public.