Mitch Richmond, NBA Hall of Famer for Sacramento Kings, Confirms 20-Year-Old Son Shane's Unexpected Death

Former Sacramento Kings and Golden State Warriors star Mitch Richmond has lost his 20-year-old son Shane Richmond. Mitch confirmed the tragedy in a heartbreaking statement.

The Richmond family is "heartbroken and devastated" following the unexpected loss of Shane on Monday, October 7.

On Tuesday, NBCSAuthentic reporter Logan Murdoch shared a statement from Mitch on his Twitter account.

Shane's death comes six years after he was declared missing

"It is with great sadness and pain that we inform you that our youngest son, Shane, unexpectedly passed away last night," the heart-rending statement read.

Mitch, 54, continued:

"We are heartbroken and devastated with this tragic news and will use the strength of our family and the thoughts and prayers of our friends to get through this incredibly difficult time. Shane was a ray of light for his two brothers, sister, mom and dad and, at only 20 years of age, had a wealth of friends and admirers who will desperately miss his warm affection and smile."

"As we go through the grieving process and the loss of our son, we ask that you respect our privacy," he finished. A cause of death for Shane has not been announced.

Shane was Mitch’s youngest son with his wife Julie, Daily Mail reported. The couple also has sons Phillip and Jerin, while the former pro basketballer player has a daughter, Tearra Gates, from another relationship.

Shane's death comes six years after he was declared missing as a teen, as reported by CBS Sacramento. At the time, his mother told investigators she believed Shane ran away from home.

The then-14-year-old was eventually found, however, and Mitch shared the update via Twitter.

"Our son Shane is back home safe thanks for all the support we got from his friends," he tweeted back in 2013. "Thank you all we are very grateful."

Besides the Kings and the Warriors, Mitch’s 14-season basketball career also included playing guard for the Washington Wizards and Los Angeles Lakers, per PEOPLE. He is currently an assistant coach at St. John’s University.

Our thoughts and prayers are with the Richmond family during this difficult time. Rest In Peace, Shane Richmond.