Laura Lynch, Founding Member of Dixie Chicks, Dies at 65

Laura Lynch, a founding member of Dixie Chicks, has died after being involved in a car accident in Texas. She was 65.

The musician was instantly killed on Friday (Dec. 22) after another vehicle slammed head-on into her car as it was attempting to pass another vehicle on Highway 62 outside of El Paso, Texas, TMZ reports.

The driver of the other car was reportedly transported to a hospital with non-life-threatening injuries. Lynch was declared dead at the scene.

Lynch was a co-founder of Dixie Chicks — who now go by The Chicks — alongside members Robin Lynn Macy, Martie Erwin and Emily Erwin in 1989.

“We are shocked and saddened to learn of the passing of Laura Lynch, a founding member of The Chicks,” the group wrote alongside a performance clip with Lynch on Instagram. “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. 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.”

The Chicks concluded their statement, writing, “Our thoughts are with her family and loved ones at this sad time.”

The Texas-born artist initially served as the upright bass player for Dixie Chicks and eventually took on the role of singer. She recorded three albums with country music group — Thank Heavens for Dale Evans (1990), Little Ol’ Cowgirl (1992) and Shouldn’t a Told You That (1993) — before leaving the act in 1993. Two years after departing, she was replaced by Natalie Maines.

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