South Carolina | April 2026 — Dylan Carter, a rising singer who gained national attention on The Voice, has died following a fatal car crash in Colleton County, South Carolina. The young artist, remembered for his emotional performances and community involvement, was 20 years old at the time of his passing.
Fatal Crash Under Investigation
According to the South Carolina Highway Patrol, the accident occurred late on the night of April 25 at approximately 11:22 p.m. local time. Authorities report that Carter’s vehicle was traveling south when it left the roadway, struck a curb, collided with a utility pole and fence, and subsequently overturned.
Emergency responders transported the driver to a nearby hospital, where he later died from his injuries. Officials have confirmed that the investigation into the cause of the crash is ongoing.
Rise to Fame on The Voice
Dylan Carter first rose to prominence during Season 24 of NBC’s The Voice, which aired in the fall of 2023. His blind audition—an emotional rendition of Whitney Houston’s “I Look to You”—was dedicated to his late mother and earned an immediate four-chair turn from all coaches, including Reba McEntire, Gwen Stefani, John Legend, and Niall Horan.
Carter ultimately chose McEntire as his coach, a decision that marked a defining moment in his brief but impactful television journey. He advanced to the Battle rounds before being eliminated prior to the Knockouts stage.
Reflecting on his audition at the time, McEntire praised his emotional depth and vocal sensitivity, noting how strongly his performance connected with both the audience and coaches.
Emotional Tribute from Reba McEntire
Following the news of Carter’s death, McEntire paid tribute to her former team member, remembering him as both a talented artist and a warm-hearted individual.
She described him as “a brilliant, kind and talented young man who brought a huge ray of sunshine to The Voice,” adding that he would be deeply missed.
McEntire also shared that Carter’s emotional storytelling through music was a defining part of his talent, highlighting how his performances resonated on a deeply personal level.
A Dream Fueled by Family and Music
During his time on the show, Carter openly spoke about the emotional significance of his journey. After his elimination, he credited the coaches for helping him regain confidence and reconnect with his passion for music, particularly in honor of his late mother.
He expressed determination to continue pursuing his dreams, stating that the experience helped him rediscover his purpose and emotional strength.
Community Mourning and Legacy
Beyond his music career, Carter was known in his local community for his entrepreneurial and philanthropic efforts. He worked as a realtor, operated a campground business, and co-founded a nonprofit initiative called The Local Voice, which supported community engagement in Santee, South Carolina.
Local leaders also expressed grief over his sudden passing. Moncks Corner Mayor Thomas Hamilton Jr. described Carter as a beloved community figure whose performances frequently brought joy to public events.
He emphasized Carter’s kindness, charm, and strong connection with residents, calling him more than an entertainer—“a friend to the community.”
Remembered for Talent and Compassion
As tributes continue to pour in, Carter is being remembered not only for his powerful voice but also for his compassion, humility, and commitment to uplifting those around him. His journey on The Voice and his community work left a lasting impression on those who knew him personally and professionally.
Authorities continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the crash.
