“American Idol” runner-up Willie Spence died Tuesday from injuries in a car accident. He was 23.
At the time of the disaster, the brilliant crooner was in Tennessee.
Singer Katharine McPhee, who sang a duet with Spence on Season 19, appeared to confirm the news on her Instagram Story and uploaded videos grieving him.
“I received very tragic news tonight,” she wrote above a video of her and Spence meeting. “Sweet @williespenceofficial passed away in a car accident. Only 23 years old. Life is so unfair and nothing is ever promised.
“God rest your soul Willie. It was a pleasure to sing with you and to know you.”
McPhee, 38, added several broken-heart emoticons and reposted Spence’s most recent video, which shows him singing a Christian hymn in a car just before the tragedy.
He posted this right before the accident [sobbing emoji],” McPhee added.
Fans and followers have already commented on the article, lamenting Spence’s unfortunate tragedy.
“Friend, fly and sing with the angels and dance amongst the stars!” “RIH,” one person said.
Randall Emmett, a film producer, also paid tribute to his “friend” on his Instagram Story.
“My heart is broken and my prayers go out to his family,” he wrote over a photo of Spence. “I was lucky to have him sing for me live at my home and other events, I will miss you my friend. I know you touched so many of us. I’m heart broken.”
During the Season 19 finale, Spence sang “Georgia on My Mind,” “A Change Is Gonna Come” and “Stand Up.” Though the judges were moved by his performance, Spence received fewer votes than Chayce Beckham, who became the American Idol.