Yesterday, former X Factor contestant Nathaniel O’Brien, 19, was killed in a high-speed crash in rural South Australia, just south of Burra.
The teenage singer was on his way to perform at the Tea Tree Gully Hotel that night, but lost control of his Ford sedan en route, crashing into a tree. He died a short time later.
Tributes from friends, fans and celebs alike are flowing in thick and fast.
My heart goes out to Nathaniel O’briens family after hearing of his tragic passing. What a spectacular young man with the voice of an angel
— Nat Bassingthwaighte (@nataliebassing) November 8, 2015
Host Luke Jacobz also tweeted his condolences:
Ex XFactor contestant Nathaniel O’Brien sadly passed today. Thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends at this sad time.
— Luke Jacobz (@lukejacobz) November 8, 2015
“It’s just so sad, I can’t believe it,” local Burra radio host Wally Sparrow told the Adelaide Advertiser; Nathaniel had performed at the Burra Country Music Festival that morning. “He had the world ahead of him.”
The Tamworth Country Music Festival posted this message to his public Facebook page:
“Our country music family is mourning.”
“We have lost such an amazing talent, a beautiful kind person, Nathaniel O’Brien.”
“We were so lucky to have Nathaniel play at the Tamworth Country Music Festival over the years and share his incredible voice with us all.”
“He will be so missed.”
“Fly high Nathaniel.”
Among the many messages of condolences on his Facebook page is one from friend Anne Clampett, who wrote:
“Shattered by the news of the death of Nathaniel O’Brien. Danny, Karen, Tracey, Chris, Josie and family I cannot imagine what you must be going through by send love, support and strength. Not only will Nathaniel’s huge talent be missed by also his genuine, caring, encouraging gentle nature and his ready laugh. Absolute tragedy and a massive loss.”
RIP Nathaniel.
Images: Facebook / Channel 7.
