Jack Hobbs
Alex Miller, an up-and-coming country star and former Season 19 contestant on “American Idol,” was involved in a fatal crash in Kentucky on Tuesday when a car plowed into a bus carrying the singer and several members of his band.
The driver of a Toyota Rav4, 53-year-old James Mcpheron of Mount Veron, Ky., died.
“While traveling 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 shared on Miller’s Instagram read on Wednesday. “Sadly, the driver of the car is deceased.”
“Alex sends his thoughts and prayers to the gentleman and his family,” the statement continued. “No one on the bus was injured. Kentucky State Police are investigating.”
The Post reached out to Miller, 20, for comment.
Miller’s manager told People that the accident was “very unfortunate” and that his client is “very sorry that the driver of the car is deceased.”
Following the incident, the Kentucky State Police released their own statement.
“On February 13, 2024, the Kentucky State Police, Post 11 London investigated a two-vehicle fatal collision that occurred approximately 10:28 pm in Rockcastle County on South Wildness Road,” the press release read.
“The preliminary investigation indicates a 2004 Toyota Rav4, operated by James M. Mcpheron, 53 years old of Mount Veron, KY, was traveling westbound on South Wildness Road when he lost control of his vehicle and veered into the path of a 1997 Vanhool (Tour Bus),” it stated. “The Bus was operated by Roger D. Miller 43 years old of Lancaster, Ky.”
According to the report, “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.”
Authorities are still investigating the accident with the help of several additional agencies and have reportedly not filed any charges.
One day prior to the crash, Miller posted a teaser for some new music on his social media page.
“Hello Alex Miller Fans! I got a brand new song coming out tomorrow called ‘Oh Odessa’ and y’all are gonna love it!” the caption read. Several hashtags appeared to reveal that the group was currently in Daytona Beach, Florida.
Miller, also a Kentucky native, rose to stardom in 2021 after appearing on Season 19 of ABC’s singing competition, “American Idol.”
In one memorable episode, the country singer charmed judges Luke Bryan, Lionel Richie and Katy Perry with his rendition of “Freeborn Man” by Jimmy Martin.
Although Miller made it to the season’s “Hollywood Week,” he did not make it to the Top 24. Fellow country singer Chayce Beckham ultimately went home with the crown.
This post was originally posted by NYPost
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