“American Idol” finalist Willie Spence, dies at the 23
The Georgia native came second in the singing competition last year.
A finalist from American Idol was killed in a car accident in Tennessee.
According to news reports citing a Tennessee Highway Patrol investigation, Willie Spence, 23, died Tuesday after colliding with the rear of a tractor-trailer stopped on the side of Interstate 24 East near Chattanooga.
According to the crash report, both drivers were wearing seatbelts, and the truck driver was not hurt.
Spence, who is from Georgia, finished second on American Idol season 19 last year. According to a
statement shared on social media by the singing competition show. Spence “was a true talent who brightened up every room he visited,”
“We are heartbroken to learn of the death of our beloved American Idol family member, Willie Spence,” the statement continues. “We extend our condolences to his family.”
Spence “could shift the vibe instantaneously when he started singing,” according to Luke Bryan, a judge in the competition. “He will be sorely missed,” Bryan said on Twitter.
Fans of the show remember Willie blowing the judges away in season 19, and making it all the way to the finale … singing hits like “A Change is Gonna Come” and “Georgia on My Mind.” He ended up coming in 2nd place behind Chayce Beckham.