Laura Lynch, a founding member of The Dixie Chicks, tragically passed away at the age of 65. She died in a car crash near El Paso, Texas, on Friday evening. The accident occurred when a car attempted to pass another vehicle on a two-way undivided portion of a highway, resulting in the collision. Laura Lynch was pronounced dead at the scene, TMZ reported on Saturday. While the other driver was transported to the hospital with non-life-threatening injuries.
The news of her passing was confirmed by her cousin, Michael Lynch, and the authorities. The Dixie Chicks, now known as The Chicks, expressed their shock and sadness at the loss of their founding member, describing Laura as a bright light whose infectious energy and humor were instrumental in the early days of the band.
They also highlighted her talents and the special place she held in their hearts. The tragic incident has deeply affected her family, loved ones, and the music community.
Lynch co-founded The Dixie Chicks with Robin Lynn Macy, Martie Erwin and Emily Erwin in 1990.
The Chicks — who dropped the word “Dixie” from their band name amid the Black Lives Matter Movement in 2020 — mourned Lynch’s loss in an emotional statement posted to their Instagram on Saturday.
“We are shocked and saddened to learn of the passing of Laura Lynch, a founding member of The Chicks,” they wrote in a joint statement.
“We hold a special place in our hearts for the time we spent playing music, laughing and traveling together. Laura was a bright light…her infectious energy and humor gave a spark to the early days of our band.”
The statement continued, “Laura had a gift for design, a love of all things Texas and was instrumental in the early success of the band. Her undeniable talents helped propel us beyond busking on street corners to stages all across Texas and the mid-West.”
“Our thoughts are with her family and loved ones at this sad time.”
Several other stars paid tribute to the late singer on social media after her heartbreaking passing, including Beyoncé and Sheryl Crow.
“RIP to the beautiful Laura Lynch, founding member of The (Dixie) Chicks,” Beyoncé’s Renaissance World Tour official X account accounted tweeted. “The Chicks became one of the most controversial music groups for taking a stand against Bush and his war. They came under fire again for the infamous CMA Daddy Lessons Performance.”
“We want to thank Laura Lynch for making moments like this possible, Rest in Peace Laura. Love and Condolences to the family ❤️❤️.”
“Feeling your sadness 💔,” Sheryl Crow wrote on Instagram.
Fans also flooded The Chicks’ social media post to offer their condolences.
“I’m so deeply sad to hear this. Sending all my love to her friends and family. She seems like she was the happiest, kindest person, a fan wrote.
“I hope her loved ones are able to find comfort in their memories of her. I’m so thankful to her for everything she did to help create my favorite band of all time.”