Willie Spence dies in car crash: ‘American Idol’ singer was 23

CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. — “American Idol” star Willie Spence has died in a car crash in Tennessee, officers mentioned.

Spence, 23, completed as runner-up to Chayce Beckham in the show’s 19th season.

The crash occurred Tuesday afternoon in East Tennessee’s Marion County, the Tennessee Highway Patrol mentioned in a preliminary report Wednesday. Spence’s 2019 Jeep Cherokee “left the roadway” of Interstate 24 and hit the again of a tractor trailer that had stopped on the shoulder.

THP mentioned each Spence and the unhurt tractor trailer driver have been sporting seatbelts. The crash investigation remains to be underway. 

“He was a true talent who lit up every room he entered and will be deeply missed,” the singing competitors present said on Twitter.

The Georgia-born singer wowed judges in his time on “American Idol,” beginning with a rendition of Rihanna’s “Diamonds” that obtained a standing ovation from choose Lionel Richie. He went on to launch an EP known as “The Voice” and a number of other singles. 

Just hours earlier than the crash, Spence shared a video on Instagram of himself singing. According to his social media, he was set to move to the United Kingdom in November for a live performance in London.

“Only 23 years old,” mentioned fellow contestant and duet accomplice Katharine McPhee Foster on her Instagram story. “Life is so unfair and nothing is ever promised. God rest your soul Willie. It was a pleasure to sing with you and to know you.”

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