Former ‘America’s Got Talent’ Contestant Deshundre Vinson Charged with First‑Degree Murder After Nephew’s Fatal Pool Drowning

Deshundre “Dre” Vinson, the 22‑year‑old who made it to the semi‑finals of “America’s Got Talent” back in 2025, is now at the center of a far darker story. He was taken into custody on Wednesday, Sept. 2, in Chattanooga, Tennessee, and charged with one count of first‑degree murder and three counts of aggravated child abuse.

The charges stem from a tragic incident that unfolded on Aug. 16. According to local outlet Chattanoogan.com, police were called to an apartment complex after hearing screams near the building’s swimming pool. When officers arrived, they found a small boy, later identified as Vinson’s 4‑year‑old nephew, being rescued from the water and receiving CPR.

The child was rushed to the hospital’s Pediatric Intensive Care Unit, where he remained for five days before doctors pronounced him dead. Video surveillance from the complex showed the boy slip from the edge he was holding onto, drift into deeper water, and stay submerged for roughly nine minutes before being pulled out.

Detectives say Vinson was supposed to be babysitting his nephew, the boy’s six‑year‑old brother, and a few other kids that evening. Instead of staying nearby, he allegedly let the children walk about 0.2 miles to the pool without any adult supervision. Police later uncovered text messages between Vinson and the boy’s mother that hinted at the lack of oversight.

Vinson’s bond has been set at $750,000, and he is scheduled to appear in court on Tuesday, Sept. 8. He is not believed to have been present at the pool before, during, or after the drowning, but prosecutors argue his negligence rose to the level of criminal intent.

Beyond the courtroom drama, Vinson is also known for his musical pursuits. He forms one‑third of the R&B trio CitiLimitz, alongside his cousins twin brothers Amari (A.T.) and Amarion (Marion). The group garnered national attention on “AGT” Season 20 and later appeared on “The Ellen DeGeneres Show” in 2019.

While fans of the singer grapple with the shocking allegations, the case underscores a grim reality: the profound responsibility that comes with caring for children, especially in environments where a simple misstep can become fatal.