The American Idol runner-up in 2021, Willie Spence, sadly perished in a Tennessee car accident.
He won over both judges and audience members with his performance of Rihanna’s “Diamonds” during season 19 of American Idol, winning the praise of all three judges, Katy Perry, Lionel Richie, and Luke Bryan.
He sang “Georgia on My Mind,” “A Change Is Gonna Come,” and “Stand Up” in the final, but Chayce Beckham came out on top.
Why Did Willie Spence Pass Away?
The 23-year-old musician passed away after his Jeep Cherokee “left the roadway” and crashed with the back of a tractor-trailer that was stopped on the hard shoulder in Chattanooga, Tennessee, according to a report from the Tennessee Highway Patrol and the Marion County medical examiner.
Georgia native Spence, who competed on American Idol season 19 last year, came in second place to Chayce Beckham.
The 68-year-old tractor-trailer driver and Spence were both wearing seat belts, the report claims.
Spence was pronounced dead at the site on Tuesday, with “multisystem trauma due to motor vehicle accident” listed as the cause of death by Marion County medical examiner Barbara O’Neal.
A spokeswoman for the Tennessee Highway Patrol stated that the agency is looking into what caused Spence’s car to stray off the road.
“We are devastated about the passing of our beloved American Idol family member, Willie Spence.” American Idol said.
“He was a true talent who lit up every room he entered and will be deeply missed.
“We send our condolences to his loved ones.”
