American Idol runner-up Willie Spence has died in a automobile crash within the US.
The 23-year-old singer misplaced his life after his Jeep Cherokee ‘left the roadway’ and collided with the again of a tractor-trailer that was stopped on the laborious shoulder close to Chattanooga, Tennessee, stated a report from the Tennessee Highway Patrol and the Marion County health worker.
Spence, who was from Georgia, completed second to Chayce Beckham on season 19 of American Idol final yr.
Both Spence and the driving force of the tractor-trailer, who’s 68 years previous, have been carrying seat belts, in response to the report.
Marion County health worker Barbara O’Neal stated the reason for demise was “multisystem trauma due to motor vehicle accident” and that Spence was pronounced lifeless on the scene on Tuesday.
A spokesperson for the Tennessee Highway Patrol stated the company is investigating why Spence’s automobile veered off the highway.
The singing competitors present launched a press release saying Spence “was a true talent who lit up every room he entered”.
The assertion stated: “We are devastated about the passing of our beloved American Idol family member, Willie Spence.
“We ship our condolences to his family members.”
Fellow American Idol star Alyssa Wray stated she was “so heartbroken” in a submit on Instagram and described Spence as a “soul that people were drawn to”.
Spence’s journey on the present started with an audition efficiency of Diamonds by Rihanna, throughout his audition in entrance of judges Katy Perry, Lionel Richie and Luke Bryan.
Hours earlier than the crash, Spence posted a video of himself singing You Are My Hiding Place on his Instagram web page. Many individuals have left tributes beneath his newest submit.
Spence was on account of carry out in London subsequent month, in response to a submit on his Instagram.
Source: information.sky.com”