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American Idol runner-up Willie Spence dies in car crash at 23, fans pay heartfelt tribute

The 'Never Be Alone' crooner was in Nashville, Tennessee on October 11 when he was involved in the accident

NASHVILLE, TENNESSEE: American Idol season 19 runner-up Willie Spence has died at age of 23 due to injuries sustained in a tragic automobile accident.

According to a report by Douglas Now News, the "Never Be Alone" crooner was in Nashville, Tennessee on Tuesday, October 11, when he was involved in the accident. Willie was taken to hospital but succumbed to his injuries. No further information about the death of the reality show runner-up has been released by the police.

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The rising superstar, from Douglas, Georgia rose to fame with his performances in the latest season of American Idol. He made his way into the show by impressing judges Luke Bryan, Katy Perry, and Lionel Richie by singing “Diamonds” by Rihanna. Willie even lost 200 pounds for the audition for the show. Throughout the season, Spence kept the audience hooked with his songs and became one of the most loved contestants of all time.

During the finale of the season, he sang “Georgia on My Mind” by Ray Charles, “A Change is Gonna Come” by Sam Cooke, and “Stand Up” by Cynthia Erivo. The judges were absolutely moved by his performance but he failed to clinch the trophy because of fewer public votes. But he didn’t lose hope, he came out and delivered some top-notch bangers including "Never Be Alone".

The singer posted a snippet of his singing performance on his Instagram handle just 15 hours before passing away.

The death of the rising has left music fans and his friends devastated. Mourning the death of the crooner, K Michelle took to her Instagram handle to pay a heart-felting tribute to the youngster. “Honestly, i'm in shock. I'm in tears. My lord Willie," the singer wrote while sharing a slew of pictures on her handle.

"It's been years of you loving me and me loving you. I was so happy that the world got to experience that amazing gift you have," K Michelle added. She further expressed her feelings, "I'm really just done for tonight. This one hurts really bad! God why! R.I.p my baby [folded hands and sad looking face emoji] @williespenceofficial I will always love your friend [red heart emoji]."

One of the singer’s fans expressed their shock and wrote, “MY HEART IS BROKEN. God, please be with Willie Spence’s family. I cannot believe this right now. Wow… 💔💔💔💔💔💔💔💔”. Another one said, “RIP to Willie Spence 🕊 what a talented young man with a beautiful voice! sending heartfelt condolences & continued prayers to his family and loved ones.” “Hearing word the @Williespence passed away in a car accident. He was just making waves. RIP,” wrote the third user. 

The Tennesee police have reportedly launched an investigation into the matter and are asking people with information to help the deputies.