‘American Idol’ Runner-Up Willie Spence Dies In Car Crash

American Idol fan favorite and season 19 runner-up Willie Spence was tragically killed in a car crash in Tennessee Tuesday. The family confirmed the heartbreaking news with TMZ.

A family source said that Willie had a flat tire at some point but allegedly got it fixed and continued to drive back home to Atlanta from Tennessee. They explained that Willie crashed into a tractor-trailer that was parked on the side of the road. He was 23.

Willie posted a video just hours before the crash … doing what he does best — singing.

https://youtube.com/shorts/jcXMA7g8NBM?feature=share

Fans of the show may remember Willie blowing the judges away in season 19, and making it all the way to the finale. Some of his most memorable cover songs were “A Change is Gonna Come,” “Georgia on My Mind,” and “Diamonds.”

He ended up coming in 2nd place behind Chayce Beckham.

American Idol left a statement following the loss.

Sending condolences to his family. Rest in peace, Willie.