Singer Simone Battle found dead at LA-area home

LOS ANGELES - Girl group singer Simone Battle was found dead in her West Hollywood home, authorities said Saturday.

Battle gained notoriety through performances on the television show "X Factor." Her five-member band - G.R.L., originally a reboot of the Pussycat Dolls - had been signed by mega-hit maker Dr. Luke.

Battle, 25, was found dead at home Friday morning, according to Los Angeles County Coroner's Department Lt. David Smith. An autopsy will be performed Sunday, he said.

The death was first reported by the celebrity website TMZ.

G.R.L. was originally the new line-up of the Pussycat Dolls, but the group established its own identity after signing with Grammy-nominated producer Dr. Luke.

In a written statement, G.R.L.'s record companies RCA and Kemosabe called Battle "an exceptional young talent and human being."