American Idol star Willie Spence tragically dies aged 23

American Idol runner-up Willie Spence has died aged 23.

He is said to have been involved in a car accident in Tennessee, news outlet Douglas Now reported.

The publication has claimed that the singer died due to 'injuries sustained in an automobile accident'.

Fellow contestant Katharine McPhee shared the tragic news on social media: "I received very tragic news tonight," she wrote. "Sweet @williespenceofficial passed away in a car accident. Only 23 years old."

"Life is so unfair and nothing is ever promised," McPhee, who was an Idol mentor during Spence's season, continued.

"God rest your soul Willie. It was a pleasure to sing with you and to know you."

In another post shared on her Instagram story, Katherine posted a video of Willie singing in the car, which she says happened right before the accident that took his life.

At the time of writing this is unconfirmed.

Willie took part in the nineteenth season of American Idol last year.

In his first audition for the show, he performed a cover of 'Diamonds' by Rihanna for judges Katy Perry, Lionel Richie and Luke Bryan.

He said at the time: "I do this for me, but not only for me, I do this for my family."

"They’ve always supported me, they’ve been there from the very beginning."

After having a very successful run on the hit singing competition show, he narrowly lost out to Chayce Beckham who ended up winning the competition.

Spence also sang the hits 'Wind Beneath My Wings', 'Set Fire to the Rain', 'Glory', and 'Georgia on My Mind' during his time on American Idol.

Willie's final Instagram post was shared on the day he died, Tuesday 11 October, in which he sang an excerpt of Selah's 'You Are My Hiding Place' for his followers.

Fans have already started sharing heartfelt tributes under the post after news of Willie's death was announced.

Singer Liamani Segura wrote: "Fly and sing with the angels and dance amongst the stars friend! RIH".

Music producer Tricky Stewart, who most recently co-wrote Beyoncé's song 'Break My Soul', said: "A special human was lost. Rest in [peace] my friend."

Another heartbroken fan shared: "his is beyond crazy this is your last post! God needed you more this is heartbreaking! God why. Such a beautiful soul."

While an Instagram user said: "What a beautiful final curtain call. RIP Willie Spence, the world has heard you."