Comedian Ken Flores dies aged 28 in middle of his tour

Heartbreaking news

The Chicago-based star was in the midst of his 33 date American tour, and was due to perform tonight in Phoenix, Arizona.

"It is with great sadness that we confirm the untimely passing of our friend, brother, and son, Kenyi Flores," a statement confirming his death said.

"Please respect our privacy at this time as we are all shocked and devastated by this loss."

TMZ reports that Flores suffered a cardiac arrest, via the Los Angeles County Medical Examiner’s Office.

Flores' Butterfly Effect Tour began on January 10, and was due to run through until April.

Flores first started out making YouTube videos, and had several clips go viral.

After trying his first open mic aged 22, he fell in love with stand-up.

“If you get that one big pop, you get bit by the standup bug and you're addicted,” he told Comedy Gazzelle.

He went on to be a big part of the comedy scene in Chicago, and toured America, including playing iconic venue the Hollywood Improv.

Fans and fellow comedians have flocked to his social media to pay tribute to the star.

"My heart is broken man, he was way too you too too young and an upcoming star man, i had the privilege to see him 1 time, he will be missed so much man, way too young," one person wrote.

"Rising star - see you on the other side bro," fellow comedian Pedro Herrera penned.

"Devastated to say the least. Thoughts with his family and his girl. I hate this," Chris Millhouse put.