Dylan Carter, who appeared on Season 24 of The Voice, has died at 24 following a single-vehicle crash in rural South Carolina on Saturday.
According to local reports, the accident happened on a road in Colleton County, with authorities confirming a fatal crash late that night. The South Carolina Highway Patrol is continuing to investigate.
Reba McEntire speaks out
Carter rose to national attention in 2023 with a powerful blind audition, performing I Look to You — a tribute to his mother, who had died the year before. His emotional performance moved all four judges to turn their chairs.
“You only get four chairs if you really move the room,” judge Niall Horan said, calling the audition “spectacular.”
His coach, Reba McEntire, also shared her reaction:
“That’s when you know you’ve got a great song and a great singer. When it touches your heart.”
After news of his death, McEntire paid tribute on social media, writing:
“We will miss Dylan so much. He was a brilliant, kind and talented young man who brought a huge ray of sunshine to The Voice. Rest in peace, my dear friend.”
A gifted singer
Moncks Corner Mayor Thomas Hamilton Jr. also honored the late singer, saying his community was “heartbroken.”
“As a gifted singer, he frequently entertained our community with his performances at Town events. His kindness and charm earned him immense respect, and his absence will be deeply felt.
To the loved ones and acquaintances of Dylan, we offer our sincerest condolences during this difficult period. The Town of Moncks Corner, its Council, and entire staff extend their deepest sympathies. He was much more to our family than an entertainer — he was our friend and we are deeply saddened.”
Carter had been scheduled to perform at the town’s “Music on Main” event on Monday, which has since been canceled as fans flooded social media with tributes.
During his audition, Carter opened up about his grief, telling the judges:
“When I saw y’all turn around, I saw my mom. She passed back in October and she wanted me to sing it at her funeral… This was the best second chance. I just made her so proud.”
After his time on the show ended, he reflected on the experience in a heartfelt post:
“Well last night did not go as we all were hoping, but I am proud to say that I went out there on that stage and gave it MY ALL.”
He added:
“I came to The Voice unsure of myself… and still grieving the loss of my mom. I left LA with confidence in myself and my future… I’m moving forward with her, as she shines through me!”
An investigation into the crash remains ongoing.