The mother and brother of former "American Idol" contestant, Jennifer Hudson, were shot and killed Friday afternoon (October 24) at their home in Chicago.

According to reports by TMZ, one of the singer's cousins discovered the two bodies -- 57-year-old Darnell Donerson and 29-year-old Jason Hudson -- at around 3:00 p.m., at which police arrived and declared a crime scene.

Later this evening, an Amber Alert was issued for the Hudson's 7-year-old nephew, Julian King, who was reportedly taken from the scene.

A man by the name of William Balfour, a suspect and also rumored to be married to the 7-year-old's mother Julia, was believed to have abducted the boy, but he was taken into custody Friday night and the whereabouts of King are still unknown.

Reports say Balfour is refusing to co-operate. He has not been charged.

Hudson's personal publicist, Lisa Kasteler, confirmed the deaths.

"We can confirm that there is an ongoing investigation concerning the deaths of Jennifer Hudson's mother, Darnell Donerson, and her brother, Jason Hudson," Kasteler said in a statement. "No further comment will be made and the family has asked that their privacy be respected at this difficult time."

According to the Associated Press, the deaths appear to be the result of domestic abuse. There was no sign of forced entry.

Jennifer Hudson was traveling to Tampa, Florida when the events happened, reports ABC News.