An American Idol star has been involved in a tragic car accident that left one person dead.
Alex Miller, a 20-year-old country singer who appeared on the US version of Australian Idol back in 2021, was a passenger on a bus in Kentucky when it was hit by a car.
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“While travelling back from a vacation last night, rising country star Alex Miller and several members of his band were on a bus that was hit by a car,” a statement posted to Miller’s Instagram read.
“Sadly, the driver of the car is deceased.
“Alex sends his thoughts and prayers to the gentleman and his family.
“No one on the bus was injured.
“Kentucky State Police are investigating.”
The statement was signed off: “Team Alex.”
Miller’s management released a separate statement to People, describing the tragedy as “very unfortunate” and adding that Miller was “very sorry that the driver of the car is deceased”.
Kentucky State Police later shared their own statement, providing further details on the crash.
“On February 13, 2024, The Kentucky State Police, Post 11 London investigated a two-vehicle fatal collision that occurred approximately 10.28pm in Rockcastle County on South Wildness Rd,” the statement read.
“The preliminary investigation indicates a 2004 Toyota Rav4, operated by James M. Mcpheron, 53-years-old of Mount Veron, Kentucky, was travelling westbound on South Wildness Road when he lost control of his vehicle and veered into the path of a 1997 Vanhool (Tour Bus).
“The Bus was operated by Roger D. Miller, 43 years old of Lancaster, Kentucky.
“As a result of the collision, Mr Mcpheron was transported by Rockcastle EMS to the Rockcastle Regional Hospital, where he succumbed to his injuries and was pronounced deceased by the Rockcastle County Coroner.”
Police said an investigation into the incident is ongoing.
One day before the fatal accident, Miller had shared news on his Instagram that he had new music in the pipeline.
“Hello Alex Miller Fans! I got a brand new song coming out tomorrow called Oh Odessa and y’all are gonna love it!” he captioned his post.
But it appears, in the wake of the crash, he has delayed releasing the single.
American Idol
Miller was only 17 when he appeared on American Idol.
He wowed judges Lionel Richie, Katy Perry and Luke Bryan with several of his performances, including an original number called I’m Over You, So Get Over Me.
Although he was eliminated just before reaching the Top 24, he went on to sign a recording contract with Nashville-based label Billy Jam Records and has released one album, Miller Time, with another album due out soon.
Fans flocked to his Instagram post to express their sadness over the crash.
“So sorry this has happened,” one fan wrote.
“Prayers for everyone involved.”
“Difficult news to deliver. Condolences to all,” said another.
“I’m so sorry,” wrote a third.
“Moments like that can weigh heavy on those that remain.
“Be gentle with yourselves.”
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