Simone Battle of G.R.L. Dies

Girl Group G.R.L.'s Simone Battle has passed away at the age of 25.

UPDATE: On Sunday, the cause of Simone Battle's death was ruled a suicide by hanging, according to the AP.

G.R.L. tweeted out these messages for Simone.

In a statement from Reign Deer Entertainment, Robin Antin, Kemosabe Records, and RCA Records, they say, "We are deeply saddened by the tragic news of the loss of Simone Battle of G.R.L.
Simone was an exceptional young talent and human being, and we are all devastated to learn of her passing. Our thoughts and prayers are with her family and loved ones at this time."

Producer and friend Derek Butler posted this picture of Simone on Instagram saying. "I'm still in shock and in disbelief to have confirmed the death of my childhood friend @SimoneBattle. Her heart was pure gold and her star power limitless. Rest in sweet peace Angel. #simonebattle #rip #grl."

NEWS: Behind the Scenes with G.R.L.

In 2011, Simone sang on The X Factor (USA). At the time, she was in Simon Cowell's category and made it to the top 17. Today, Simon Cowell went on Twitter to express his sadness.

After Simone was on The X Factor, she joined what Robin Antin called the "next generation" of the Pussycat Dolls. Lauren Bennett, Emmalyn Estrada, Natasha Slayton, Paula van Oppen formed the group G.R.L. Their hit single "Wild Wild Love" features Pitbull, and their more recent release  "Ugly Heart" is currently a top 40.

Recently, this past July, Simone talked to ETonline about being in a girl group. "The more that you can stick together with the girls and represent support and not be jealous of each other, between us and other girl groups, I think it’s a really positive message."

NEWS: G.R.L. Brings a New Meaning to Girl Power 

Simone last tweeted on September 2 saying she was going to see Evan Mellows perform.

In this video, Simone and the other girls of G.R.L. spoke about what sets them apart from other girl groups.