Ric Flair has issued a statement following the tragic death of his stepson, Sebastian Kidder.
News of Sebastian’s death was shared by his mother, Wendy Barlow, over the weekend.
Barlow confirmed that Sebastian had died by suicide at the age of 24, telling TMZ: “I am devastated and shocked. This is an epidemic with your young men. And mental health.”
TMZ reports that police are currently investigating Sebastian’s death, after he was discovered on Saturday afternoon in Georgia after suffering a gunshot wound.
Sebastian’s death came just hours after he shared a selfie on Instagram posing with his guitar.
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Following the tragedy, WWE legend Ric Flair has taken to Instagram to share an emotional tribute to his stepson’s passing.
Writing to his fans, the former 16-time world champion said: ‘I Have Spent Hours Wondering What To Say. After Hearing The News Of Sebastian’s Passing, I Can Only Imagine What Wendy & Paul Are Going Through Having Lost A Son Approximately The Same Age In 2013.”
The wrestling legend is referring to his late son Richard Reid Fliehr, who died at the age of 25 following an overdose.
‘I’m So Thankful For The Time I Had With Sebastian,” Flair continued in his post. “I Have So Many Great Memories & Bonding Time With Him As He Grew Up!
“He Stood Tall By His Mother Along With The Whole Family- Sophia, Paris, And Summer, While I Was Dying. He Was So Unselfish Sharing His Mother With Me As I Was Dying. And Also, At The Passing Of My Son Reid. He Was Multi-Talented & In Everybody’s Eyes A Huge Success And Will Always Be Remembered That Way.”
Flair’s post has been flooded with condolences from fans and fellow wrestlers alike. “I’m so very sorry, Ric,” wrote former women’s champion Natalya Neidhart.
And former WWE star Vito LoGrasso commented: “Very sorry brother.”
Following the outpouring of support, Flair shared another post thanking his fans and loved ones for their outpouring of support.
“Wendy & I Are Overwhelmed By The Messages Of Love & Thoughts And Prayers,” he wrote. “We Can’t Respond To Everyone Individually, But Just Know We Love You All And Respect You. Always Remember, Life Is Precious. Live Every Day To The Fullest. Don’t Take Anything For Granted. Love Your Family And Keep Them Close!”
Flair and Barlow – a former WCW star in her own right – celebrated their relationship in a non-legally binding wedding back in September 2018. They have since been in an off-and-on-again relationship.
Our thoughts go out to Sebastian’s family, friends, and loved ones at this time.
