Crime & Safety
Willie Spence, 'American Idol' Star, Dies In Car Crash: Reports
Willie Spence, 23, died Tuesday after crashing into a tractor trailer.

This story was updated to correct the name of one of the "American Idol" judges.
MARION COUNTY, GA — Willie Spence, an "American Idol" finalist, died Tuesday in a car crash in Marion County, Tennessee, according to media reports. He was 23.
According to 11Alive, Spence's 2019 Jeep Cherokee ran into the back of a tractor trailer sitting on the shoulder after running off of the road on Interstate 24 east near Chattanooga, Tennessee.
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The driver of the tractor trailer was not injured, and both the driver and Spence had on seatbelts, 11Alive reported.
CNN reported Spence relocated to Georgia from West Palm Beach, Florida, during his childhood. He was from Douglas County.
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Spence was known for his rendition of Rihanna's "Diamonds," which he sang in his "American Idol" audition in the singing competition's 19th season.
"American Idol" shared the clip on its Facebook page Wednesday.
The judges were impressed with the audition.
Luke Bryan said he didn't want Spence to stop singing while Katy Perry told him he had magic.
Lionel Richie told Spence he was "an undeniable star."
"We are devastated about the passing of our beloved American Idol family member, Willie Spence. 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 show posted.
11Alive reported Spence planned to do a live performance in November in London.
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