Country icon Reba McEntire is speaking out after the heartbreaking loss of one of her “The Voice” mentees, and her tribute is hitting fans right in the emotions. The music world is reeling after the sudden and tragic death of Dylan Carter, a rising country singer who appeared on “The Voice.” The 24-year-old died following a devastating car crash in his home state of South Carolina. Authorities confirmed Carter succumbed to blunt force injuries sustained in the accident, which occurred late Saturday night.
‘The Voice’ Star Dylan Carter Dead At 24
According to officials, Carter was driving his 2026 Tesla sedan southbound on U.S. 21, known locally as Lowcountry Highway, when he veered off the road around 11:22 p.m. near the town of Smoaks. Police say the vehicle jumped a curb before crashing into a utility pole and fence, ultimately flipping over.
Carter, who was wearing a seatbelt and was the only person in the vehicle, was discovered by emergency responders and rushed to a nearby hospital, where he later died from his injuries. Authorities have ruled the crash accidental.
Carter’s vehicle reportedly did not catch fire following the crash, a detail in contrast to other high-profile wrecks involving Tesla vehicles.
The young artist had been scheduled to perform at the “Music on Main” festival in Moncks Corner on Monday night. Following news of his passing, the event was canceled.
Reba McEntire Shares Emotional Tribute
Tributes quickly poured in from across the music community, led by Carter’s former mentor, Reba McEntire. “We will miss Dylan so much,” she wrote.
McEntire, who worked closely with Carter during his time on the show, described him as ‘a brilliant, kind and talented young man who brought a huge ray of sunshine to ‘The Voice’.” She added, “Rest in peace, my dear friend.”
‘The Voice’ Family Mourns Loss
The NBC competition series also released a statement honoring Carter’s memory. “‘The Voice’ family is deeply saddened by the passing of Dylan Carter, a remarkable talent whose joy and light were felt by those around him on set,” they wrote. “Our condolences are with his family, friends and community. He will be missed.”
Organization Honors Dylan Carter’s Legacy
As tributes continue to pour in, a spokesperson for The Local Voice is shedding more light on the impact Dylan Carter had beyond the stage. Speaking with the Daily Mail, the rep shared that Carter “used his voice as a way to reach people and give back,” adding that he had a “genuine heart for helping others and bringing people together,” which is “what he was most proud of.”
According to the organization, Carter had also been planning to take part in upcoming charity events, a mission they now plan to continue in his honor, noting they will “honor and carry his mission forward.”
The statement turned emotional as the spokesperson acknowledged the deep grief surrounding his loss. “His family and friends are grieving this unimaginable loss, and we ask for continued prayers and respect for their privacy,” the rep said. “We find comfort knowing he is in Heaven hugging his Mama.”
Carter’s mother, Julie, died in 2022, just one year before he appeared on “The Voice.”
Fans React With Heartbreak On X
Fans also took to X to share their grief and reflect on Dylan Carter’s life, with many expressing shock over the young singer’s sudden passing.
“I’m glad he pursued his passion and won. He climbed a mountain that few succeed at and got the realizations of his life. In my heart, I know he is ok, and thankful for the blessings that allowed him to get all the way up that mountain. He touched millions and will remain in our hearts,” one user wrote.
“Gone at 24 with so much talent and life ahead. This one hurts. RIP Dylan Carter,” another post read. Others focused on his age and the tragedy of losing someone so young. “That is really tragic. 24 is a young age. I’m sending his family, friends, and the entire Moncks Corner community my love and support. May his memories and songs endure, and may his soul rest in peace,” one person shared.
