Former ‘American Idol’ Contestant Rickey Smith Killed in Car Crash at 36, Ruben Studdard Shares Heartfelt Message

The Huffington Post

A car accident has claimed the life of a season 2 “American Idol” contestant. Rickey E. Smith, Jr. was killed in a multi-car crash in Oklahoma Friday morning.

Amy Elliott of the Oklahoma Office of the Chief Medical Examiner confirmed the news. Smith was 36 years old and Elliott cites multiple blunt force injuries as the cause of the singer’s death.

The Oklahoma Highway Patrol says a driver who was traveling the wrong way on Interstate 240 struck and killed Smith. The motorist was identified as 27-year-old Gerardo Cerda, Jr. He was later hospitalized and later charged with a DUI, after troopers smelled alcohol around Cerda.

Smith’s death was also confirmed by his family.

Ruben Studdard, who won the second season of “Idol,” posted a message about Smith’s death on Instagram.

As I sit here in utter disbelief about the fact that you went to be with the Lord. I think back on all the fun times we had. How we set up for hours in our room in the Idol Mansion talking and listening to music. How much fun we all had on our very first tour. You were the heart of our season and the true definition of a real friend.. I will miss you my Friend RIP Ricky Smith. I'm sure you're in heaven singing you're heart out!!!

A photo posted by @realrubenstuddard on May 6, 2016 at 10:28am PDT