The Voice Kids’ Nicole Valeria Vargas Gomez has died after a harrowing car crash aged 19.
Nicole Valeria Vargas Gomez tragically died after a car crash (Image: The Voice Kids Colombia)
The Voice Kids star Nicole Valeria Vargas Gomez has died aged 19. The former contestant from Colombia’s spin-off of the singing contest was killed in a heartbreaking hit-and-run crash that also claimed the life of another man. Police are continuing to search for the driver who fled the scene of the accident which took place on Circasia–Armenia road in Quindío, Colombia. The second victim, identified as William Andrew Paipa, 40, was also killed in the collision.
According to local authorities, Nicole and Andrew were crossing the road when the vehicle suddenly struck them. The impact threw them both into the air and sent them onto the opposite side of the road. Police have confirmed that the driver allegedly failed to stop to help and instead fled the scene. Investigators are now working to identify and locate the vehicle involved in the fatal crash. In the official statement via Unilad, law enforcement officers said: “A traffic accident occurred involving pedestrians being run over by an unidentified vehicle, affecting two individuals who were crossing the road in the restaurant area at El Solar.
Nicole Valeria Vargas Gomez was struck will crossing the road with another man (Image: Instagram)
“At this time, the individuals can be identified as William Andres Paipa and Nicole Valeria Vargas Gomez.”
Nicole rose to stardom at just 12 years old when she appeared on La Voz Kids, and although she didn’t advance to the final, the hopeful attracted a loyal fanbase.
In the years that followed, the singer continued performing, appearing at festivals across Colombia.In addition to her music career, Nicole was studying Business Administration at the University of Quindío, which released a statement paying tribute to her life and impact.
Nicole Valeria Vargas Gomez appeared on The Voice Kids when she was just 12 (Image: The Voice Colombia)
The University penned: “Nicole was a young woman committed to her academic training and to the cultural life of our alma mater. From the classrooms and also from the stages, she left her mark through her discipline, sensitivity and deep love for art.
“As a member of Coranto, she always carried the name of the University of Quindio with honour to every meeting and performance.”
More tributes poured in from heartbroken fans, as one commented: “She is remembered for the beautiful impact she had on the lives of those who knew her and appreciated her talent. May she rest in peace.”
Another added: “How sad, my deepest condolences to the family.” As a third remarked: “It’s so sad that such young people are dying in accidents.”
One devastated follower said: “Our Nico, now you’re going to bless all those angels with your voice. Strength for all your family and peace in your soul.”
As a loved one added: “Nico, may your soul shine as it did in this place, may your voice be in the heavenly choir, it was a pleasure to have met you and hear you sing !! Strength to his family and friends, I’m with you in your pain.”
