Laura Lynch, one of the original members of the band originally known as the Dixie Chicks and now referred to as The Chicks, tragically passed away at 65 in a car accident in El Paso, Texas.
In a statement to NPR, the Texas Department of Public Safety officially confirmed the passing of Lynch.
Lynch, a bassist and vocalist with the prominent all-female country band since its formation in 1989, was driving a 2016 Ford F-150 eastbound on US 62 when her vehicle was involved in a frontal collision with another car. A justice of the peace declared her dead at the accident site.
The driver of the other vehicle involved in the collision was taken to a local hospital, suffering from injuries that were not considered life-threatening.
On their Instagram account, Emily Strayer, Martie Maguire, and Natalie Maines of The Chicks shared a tribute to Lynch, expressing their profound shock and sorrow upon hearing the news.
“Laura shone brightly with her vibrant spirit and wit, which were the lifeblood during our band’s formative years,” the statement read. “During this sorrowful period, our hearts go out to her family and close friends.”
The safety department has stated that the investigation is still in progress. Representatives for The Chicks have not replied to requests for a statement made by NPR.
Founded in 1989 by Lynch, along with the Erwin sisters, Maguire and Strayer, the group saw Lynch’s departure in 1993 after three album releases. Maines stepped in as her replacement. Initially playing bass for the band, Lynch began her role as a vocalist after the original singer, Robin Lynn Macy, left in 1992.