Prince's Last Public Appearance Was Just Last Week

The entertainment world was rocked to its core on Thursday, April 21, as iconic singer and music legend Prince has died at age 57. Prince's publicist confirmed in a statement to Bustle Thursday that Prince had died at his home in Minnesota.

Update: The Carver County Sheriff's Office released the following statement to Bustle:

Carver County Sheriff Jim Olson reports that on April 21, 2016, at about 9:43 am, sheriff’s deputies responded to a medical call at Paisley Park Studios in Chanhassen. When deputies and medical personnel arrived, they found an unresponsive adult male in the elevator. First responders attempted to provide lifesaving CPR, but were unable to revive the victim. He was pronounced deceased at 10:07 am. He has been identified as Prince Rogers Nelson (57) of Chanhassen.

The Carver County Sheriff’s Office, with the assistance of the Hennepin County Sheriff’s Office and The Midwest Medical Examiner’s Office, are continuing to investigate the circumstances surrounding his death.

Earlier: "It is with profound sadness that I am confirming that the legendary, iconic performer, Prince Rogers Nelson, has died at his Paisley Park residence this morning at the age of 57," his rep said.

His death comes as a devastating loss and a massive shock to those who loved the singer, in part because what is now Prince's final appearance occurred just five days ago, on April 16.

According to TMZ, after a scheduled concert in Atlanta last Thursday (April 14), Prince's private plane was forced to make an emergency landing in Illinois, where the singer was subsequently hospitalized (and, later, released). Prince's rep told TMZ at the time that the singer had been "fighting the flu for several weeks" and had to cancel a few shows, but was determined to perform in Atlanta for his fans. On Saturday, April 16 — just one day after he was released from the hospital — Prince wanted to thank fans for their well wishes and assure them he was feeling better, so he threw a $10 dance party, during which he did not sing but did appear on stage.

TMZ reports that Prince appeared at the event around midnight and took the stage, showing off his new guitar and piano. In a devastatingly ironic turn, the singer allegedly told the crowd to "wait a few days before you waste any prayers."

According to one fan, the "Purple Rain" singer played the piano for the audience and flaunted his purple guitar. It was clearly a special night for Prince and fans alike, rejoicing in unity that he was feeling better and eager to be on stage and connect with fans.

Earlier in the day, he was allegedly spotted by others riding a bicycle around town.

R.I.P. Prince.