Dylan Carter, a rising singer who gained national attention on “The Voice,” has died at 24 following a tragic car accident in South Carolina.

According to local reports, Carter was involved in a single-vehicle crash in Colleton County on Saturday, April 25th.  South Carolina Highway Patrol Corporal Nick Pye said Carter, who was the only person in the vehicle, “ran off the road before striking a utility pole and a fence and then overturning.” He was transported to a nearby hospital, where he later died from his injuries. The crash remains under investigation.

Carter first captured national attention during Season 24 of “The Voice” in 2023, when his emotional performance of Whitney Houston’s “I Look to You” earned a rare four-chair turn from coaches Reba McEntire, Gwen Stefani, John Legend, and Niall Horan. His performance moved the judges to tears, but it was the story behind the song that left a lasting impact.

While speaking with the coaches, Carter shared that he had once tried to sing the same song at his mother’s funeral but couldn’t finish it.

“When I saw y’all turn around, I saw my mom,” Carter said. “She passed back in October and she wanted me to sing it at her funeral. So I did it. I tried but I couldn’t make it through it.”

“So this was the best second chance,” he added. “I just made her so proud. This was her dream before it was mine.”

Carter ultimately chose McEntire as his coach and advanced to the battle rounds before being eliminated, but his story and spirit continued to resonate with fans and fellow artists.

In a heartfelt tribute shared Monday, McEntire wrote, “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.”

Back in his hometown of Moncks Corner, South Carolina, Carter was known not just for his talent, but for his heart. Mayor Thomas Hamilton Jr. described the loss as deeply personal.

“Our family is heartbroken to hear about the passing of Dylan Carter in a car accident,” he wrote. “His kindness and charm earned him immense respect, and his absence will be deeply felt.”

Carter had been scheduled to perform at the town’s “Music on Main” event, which was canceled following the news of his passing.

Beyond music, Carter was committed to serving others. In 2024, he co-founded the nonprofit The Local Voice, supporting women battling breast cancer and families in need. The organization shared an emotional statement honoring his legacy.

“Dylan was the heart of what we do. He believed every voice matters and lived that every day,” the group wrote. “Through his music, his kindness, and his smile, he brought people together and made everyone feel seen.”

They added, “We are heartbroken, but find comfort knowing he is in heaven with his mother… We will carry his light forward and continue this mission in his honor.”

Carter’s life, though tragically short, was marked by compassion, purpose, and a desire to uplift others. His story is a reminder of how one voice—grounded in love and perseverance—can leave a lasting impact.

Heavenly Father, we lift up the family and loved ones of Dylan Carter during this time of deep grief. Bring them comfort, peace, and strength as they mourn his loss. Thank You for the light he shared through his music and his life. Help us to carry that same kindness and compassion into the world. Remind us of the hope we have in You, even in the midst of sorrow. In Jesus’ name, Amen.