Singer-songwriter Dylan Carter, best known for appearing on season 24 of the NBC music reality series The Voice, died in Colleton County, South Carolina, in the early hours of April 25. Carter, 24, was reportedly involved in a fatal car crash.
His family friend Thomas Hamilton Jr confirmed the news on Facebook:
“Our family is heartbroken to hear about the passing of Dylan Carter in a car accident. As a gifted singer, he frequently entertained our community with his performances at Town events. His kindness and charm earned him immense respect, and his absence will be deeply felt.”
Hamilton continued to pay tribute:
“To the loved ones and acquaintances of Dylan, we offer our sincerest condolences during this difficult period. The Town of Moncks Corner, its Council, and entire staff extend their deepest sympathies. He was much more to our family than an entertainer; he was our friend and we are deeply saddened.”
Likewise, fellow Voice contestant Stee also mourned the loss:
“It’s with a heavy heart to share that my very close friend and The Voice alum Dylan Carter Music has passed away this morning. We both became close on Season 24 as we both were representing South Carolina. I’m sending love to his family and fans. He was a little brother to me and a beautiful person. Love you, Dylan.”
More people join in to pay tribute to Dylan Carter
Dylan Carter gained prominence on national television after appearing on The Voice. He was a four-chair who later auditioned to become a contestant. During his blind audition, Carter impressed the judges with his rendition of Whitney Houston’s I Look At You.
After his selection in the first round, he joined Team Reba (McEntire) who inspired him to continue “touching people’s hearts” through his music. Throughout his journey on the show (until Battle Rounds), Dylan Carter dedicated his performances to his late mother. In fact, he was often deemed “the boy who made Reba McEntire (and the world) cry.” In an interview with News 2, he recalled of his audition:
“I felt my mom with me. I heard her, but then walking off that stage and after hearing and seeing them all turn, I just, my confidence grew. I felt on top of the world. It was crazy.”
Carter was a popular musician in Lowcountry, Saint George, South Carolina, whose day job was that of a licensed realtor. Elsewhere, he also owned Sunny Days RV Park & Compound in Santee near Lake Marion.
According to his website, at 10, Dylan began writing his own songs and performing at churches, local weddings, other events, and farmers’ markets. He later also played at gigs in restaurants, backyard parties, fundraisers, and more.
“Dylan strives to make his music meaningful, dedicating most of his songs to others, including compositions for couples and those mourning a loss… As a one-man band, he promises a fantastic experience at his gigs, filled with laughter, smiles, relaxation, singing, and perhaps even a little boot scootin’ boogie!” the website reads.
Thomas Hamilton Jr wrote in a follow-up tribute:
“Dylan was to perform at our last Music on Main tomorrow. Look at this beautiful rainbow over Moncks Corner. He is home with his Momma now.”
According to WCBD, the musician was scheduled to perform at the Town of Moncks Corner on Monday night.
Dylan Carter’s last Facebook post was on April 16. In it, he asked his fans to join him in the upcoming celebration of the 2026 National Day of Prayer. The caption stated:
“Come join us in Harleyville, May 7th at 6:30 pm. Bring a chair and enjoy the messages, the music, and the worship!”
Besides Hamilton, many friends and colleagues paid their tributes. Facebook user Caroline Burns wrote:
“I know your mama was at the gates waiting on you with the biggest hug and grin. You will be missed so much. Please pray for Dylan Carter family and friends. It’s an absolutely devastating loss.”
Photographer Rebecca also weighed in:
“My heart aches as I write this post… Dylan, you have always been an amazing friend and I wouldn’t be where I am in my life if you didn’t put your special touch on it. I was so honored to get to capture a couple of your events and I will miss your cheesy smile. There has never been a day that I didn’t see you with that smile on your face. Sunny Days won’t be as sunny without you! Say hi to your momma and rest easy, my friend.”
The Local Voice, a nonprofit aimed at providing care for breast cancer patients, also mourned the tragedy. Carter was its co-founder.
Edited by Pallavi K