Willie Spence, 'American Idol' runner-up and Georgia native, dies at 23
PHILADELPHIA, PENNSYLVANIA - NOVEMBER 25: Singer Willie Spence is seen during the 102nd 6abc Dunkin' Donuts Thanksgiving Day Parade on November 25, 2021 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Gilbert Carrasquillo/GC Images) (Getty Images)
ATLANTA - Willie Spence, a Georgia native and former contestant on the reality show "American Idol," has died.
The television show's official Twitter account confirmed the news Wednesday. Spence was 23 years old.
Spence died in a car crash, according to a report from TMZ. A relative reportedly said Spence had just fixed a flat tire on a drive to Atlanta from Tennessee before he crashed into a tractor-trailer parked on the side of the road.
Spence blew away "American Idol" judges in 2021 with his performance of "Diamonds" by Rihanna. Spence advanced all the way to the final round that season, finishing behind Chayce Beckham.
"I just want my voice to reach the world and share my gift," he told Katy Perry during his audition.
Spence paid tribute to his home state of Georgia with a cover of Ray Charles' "Georgia On My Mind" as part of his performance in the Season 19 finals.
Fans expressed shock and sorrow in the comments of an Instagram post, which contained perhaps his final performance, as news of his death broke.
This story is breaking. Check back for details. If you have additional information, pictures, or video email newstipsatlanta@fox.com.