Georgia native Willie Spence, who captured the nation's heart during his stint on "American Idol" in 2021, has died at the age of 23, according to a crash report from Tennessee Highway Patrol
The report states Spence was driving on Interstate 24 East in Marion County at around 4 p.m. on Tuesday when he exited the roadway. THP said a tractor-trailer was stopped on the shoulder. Spence, who was wearing a seatbelt, collided with the back of the tractor-trailer.
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Spence did not survive. The driver of the tractor-trailer was not injured, according to THP.
American Idol posted about Spence's death on Instagram.
They said, "We are devastated about the passing of our beloved American Idol family member, Willie Spence. 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."