'American Idol' runner-up Willie Spence dies after a car crash at 23: 'I'm in shock'

Willie Spence, who finished in second place on Season 19 of "American Idol," has died. He was 23.

The singing competition show issued a statement on Spence's death in a tribute post on Instagram Wednesday.

"We are devastated about the passing of our beloved 'American Idol' family member, Willie Spence," read the post, featuring video from his audition. "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."

The singer died Tuesday after hitting the rear of a tractor-trailer that was stopped on the shoulder of Interstate 24 East near Chattanooga, according to reports by ABC News and NBC News citing a Tennessee Highway Patrol report. USA TODAY has reached out to the Tennessee Highway Patrol for comment.

Both drivers were wearing seatbelts, and the truck driver wasn’t injured, the crash report said.

Spence began his "Idol" journey by singing Rihanna's "Diamonds" for his audition that aired in February 2021, with judge Lionel Richie calling him "an undeniable star." From then he consistently wowed judges and became the runner-up, losing to "Idol" winner Chayce Beckham.

During the "Idol" showdown finale Spence sang his rendition of Cynthia Erivo's "Stand Up," a song he'd wowed the judges with earlier in the season.

"We love that voice, and I love where it comes from. It comes from God, and it comes from a soul within that I pray I can find one day," judge Luke Bryan said of Spence's talent.

Bryan also honored Spence on social media Wednesday, writing, "Willie really did light up every room he walked into. He could change the mood instantly when he started singing."

"He will truly be missed," Bryan added.

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After his "Idol" run, Spence continued to sing. He was planning on giving his first concert in London with several other special guests next month.

Tributes poured in for the singer after news of his death spread.

"Honestly, i’m in shock. I’m in tears. My lord Willie. One of my favorite rebels," singer K. Michelle posted on Instagram Wednesday. "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."

Spence's fellow "Idol" contestant Alyssa Wray made a touching tribute with a photo of both of them linked arm in arm and laughing.

"To know you was to love you. Willie loved music. Willie loved his family. Willie loved his friends. Willie loved to laugh," Wray wrote on Instagram Wednesday. "Willie loved the Lord. And we all loved Willie. The whole WORLD loved Willie."

Contributing: Charles Trepany, USA TODAY; The Associated Press

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Willie Spence dead: 'American Idol' runner-up Season 19 dies at 23