Willie Spence Mourned By Casey Bishop & More ‘American Idol’ Contestants After Death At 23

Willie Spence was beloved by fans, as well as those who knew him personally. Those who competed alongside Willie on season 19 of American Idol are devastated by the loss of the powerful singer, who reportedly died in a car accident on Oct. 11. After news of Willie’s death broke, tributes from fellow Idol contestants began pouring in on social media, as those who knew Willie mourned his tragic loss.

Casey Bishop, who came in fourth on Willie’s season of Idol, was amongst the first to post about Willie’s tragic passing. “I can’t even fathom this right now,” she wrote. “Such a beautiful bright soul, his energy was so contagious. Rest in peace, Willie, you are loved by so many.” Hunter Metts, who was another top 10 finalist, wrote on his own IG story, “I’m in disbelief. One of the most beautiful souls I’ve ever met. Life is so precious. Rest in peace my brother.”

Cassandra Coleman was devastated by Willie’s passing, as well. “I can’t even fathom this right now,” she wrote on Instagram. “My heart is absolutely crushed. “There are NO words. Please pray for Willie’s family and their grieving hearts. I can’t even imagine the pain they must be feeling. Such an incredible, mind-blowing talent unfairly taken away from this world. Life is so fragile.”

Willie died after sustaining injuries in a car crash in Tennessee. He has posted an Instagram video of himself singing in the front seat of his car just hours before news of his death was publicized. Willie wowed fans with his voice from his first Idol audition during season 19, and he went on to become the runner-up of the season. Country singer Chayce Beckham received more votes than Willie during the finale and was declared the winner.

Willie had so much to look forward to before his death, including an upcoming show in London on Nov. 12. He excitedly confirmed the show at the end of September after teasing an exciting announcement in the days leading up to the big reveal. Although Willie didn’t shoot to superstardom after his time on Idol, he continued posting videos of his music for fans, and had nearly 500,000 followers on Instagram at the time of his death. Willie was just 23 years old.

During his time on American Idol, Willie performed songs like “Diamonds”, “All Of Me” and more. He also got the chance to sing with fellow Idol star, Katharine McPhee, on the show. Katharine mourned Willie on her Instagram Story after learning of his death, as well. “I received very tragic news tonight,” she wrote, along with a video of them together on the show. “Sweet Willie Pence passed away in a car accident. Only 23 years old. Life is so unfair and nothing is promised. God rest your soul Willie. It was a pleasure to sing with you and to know you.” She also included several broken heart emojis along with her message for the late singer.

Although Willie’s death happened in Tennessee, the news was first confirmed by his hometown newspaper in Douglas County, Georgia. The paper shared the news on Facebook, writing, “DouglasNow has learned that Douglas native and American Idol season 19 runner- up Willie Spence, 23, has passed away due to injuries sustained in a car accident in Tennessee. We have no further details at this time. We extend our condolences to Willie’s family, friends and fans. He was an extraordinary talent and ray of light to millions across the world. He will be missed.”