Randy Howard Dead, Shot & Killed By Bounty Hunter Jackie Shell: Willie Nelson 'Outlaw Country' Singer Shootout Shocks Twitter

Reports confirm that "All American Redneck" singer Randy Howard was shot and killed by a bounty hunter in Tennessee on Tuesday (June 9). Apparently, Howard recently failed to appear in court for a fourth alleged DUI offense, possession of drug paraphernalia, possession of a firearm while intoxicated, and driving on a revoked license. The bounty hunter (Jackie Shell) was attempting to take Howard into custody outside of his Lynchburg home when the deadly shootout occurred.

The news of Howard's tragic death was first confirmed by Tennessee Bureau of Investigation spokesman Josh DeVine (via NBC News). Shell only went to the country superstar's house because Howard had skipped a mandatory court appearance. Once Shell arrived, the 65-year-old "Whiskey Talkin'" crooner opened fire first. Shell responded with his own gunfire, which is when Howard was struck and killed. The "Plus Bail Bonding" rep was also injured during the sudden shootout.

According to friend Terry Dotson, Howard refused to go to court even with help:

"He said he wasn't going back to jail. That's what he told me," (via Nashville's WSMV).

The State's Attorney General's Office allows bounty hunters to arrest bail jumpers "at any place in this state" (including residence):

Tennessee courts would likely conclude that a bounty hunter may, if necessary, use reasonable force to enter the bail jumper's residence (via HollywoodLife.com).

Fans continue offering their condolences on Twitter:

@WillieGuyArnot: "RIP Randy Howard, wow, we just keep losing them."

@everything214: "Rip Randy Howard my heart and condolences goes out to the whole country music scene and to the family and friends."

@JohnSquirley: "Rip Randy Howard you drugged out sob."

@MadManAz: "#RiP to Randy Howard, Christopher Lee, Dusty Rhodes... who else? I'm pretty sure someone else cool died recently."

@ACNewman: "Have we always lived in the Wild West? - RIP."

Howard, a member of the "Outlaw Country" movement which also included Willie Nelson, released his debut album Now and Then in 1976.

Get some of Howard's "best hits" on iTunes.

RIP, Randy Howard.