Dixie Chicks founding member Laura Lynch ‘killed in car crash’ in Texas

Laura Lynch, one of the founding members of the Dixie Chicks, has died aged 65.

According to reports, the singer was involved in a car crash in Texas, in the US, on Friday evening.

The musician’s cousin reported the news to TMZ, saying that it happened while she was driving on the highway.

According to TMZ, The Texas Department of Public Safety confirmed Lynch’s death, revealing that the accident occurred when another driver tried to overtake a vehicle on a two-lane highway, which resulted in a head-on collision with Lynch’s car.

The singer was declared dead at the scene, while the driver of the other car was taken to hospital with non-life-threatening injuries.

The official Dixie Chicks Instagram account has shared a tribute to Lynch, signed by the band’s three remaining members, Emily, Martie and Natalie.

“We are shocked and saddened to learn of the passing of Laura Lynch,” the caption reads.

“We hold a special place in our hearts for the time we spent playing music, laughing and travelling together. Laura was a bright light…her infectious energy and humour gave a spark to the early days of our band.

“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.”

In 1989, Lynch formed the country band The Dixie Chicks alongside Robin Lynn Macy, Martie Erwin, and Emily Erwin.

Though she started as the band’s upright bassist, Lynch eventually became a lead singer. She ultimately left the band in 1995, and was replaced by Natalie Maines.

In 2020, the band changed their name to simply The Chicks in the wake of social justice and Black Lives Matter protests.

Lynch is survived by her husband, Mac Tull, and their daughter.

This story first appeared on Nine Honey and is republished with permission.