Travis Barker Writes Emotional Letter to Teen Drummer After His Death: His ‘Impact’ Was ‘Life Changing’

Alex Etheridge, whom Barker met in June, died earlier this week

Travis Barker is mourning the loss of a fan and teen drummer whom he met earlier this year.

“I just wanted to say meeting you changed my life forever,” Barker, 47, wrote in the comments section of an Instagram post announcing the death of 13-year-old Alex Etheridge.

“When my daughter Alabama told me about you and your story I couldn’t wait to hang. You’re one of the nicest people I’ve met. You are so talented in so many ways. You’re a great song writer, drummer and musician. I loved jamming with you playing paradiddles and herta’s. I could’ve hung out with you for days if we had more time,” he added.

Barker met Etheridge — who was diagnosed with bone cancer in January 2022, per Fox 10 — in June. Reflecting on their meet, the musician recalled he was “so strong, happy and present,” despite what he was going through.