Laura Lynch, one of the founding members of the iconic country music group Dixie Chicks, passed away at the age of 65. The news of her untimely demise has left fans and music enthusiasts mourning the loss of a talented artist who played an integral role in shaping the band's early success.
Lynch's contribution to the Dixie Chicks cannot be overstated. As a founding member, she helped establish their unique sound and style that would go on to captivate audiences worldwide. Her powerful vocals and harmonies added depth and emotion to their music, setting them apart from other country acts at the time.
Lynch left and was replaced by Natalie Maines, creating the current trio of Maines, Maguire and Strayer. 
Lynch was pronounced dead at the scene, police said. Authorities said she was not wearing a seatbelt. The other vehicle caught on fire and the driver was taken to the hospital with non-life-threatening injuries.
Lynch was a co-founder of the group alongside members Robin Lynn Macy, Martie Erwin and Emily Erwin in 1989, Billboard reported. She was the upright bass player and eventually took the role of a singer.
She recorded three albums with the group before leaving. Natalie Maines replaced her in the band.
"Laura was a bright light. Her infectious energy and humor gave a spark to the early days of our band," it said, "Our thoughts are with her family and loved ones at this sad time."
The department of safety said the investigation is ongoing. The Chicks' representatives did not respond to NPR's request for comment.
Texas. She declined to share why she left the group, but confirmed she was replaced. At the time Lynch said she had no regrets about missing the group's rise to fame, according to the article.
“It was worth it,” Lynch added. “I’d get anemic all over again to do it.”
The band changed its name from The Dixie Chicks to simply The Chicks in 2020 shortly before the release of "Gaslighter," their first album after a 14-year hiatus.
Laura Lynch's passing is a tremendous loss for the music industry. Her contributions as a founding member of the Dixie Chicks will forever be remembered and celebrated. May she rest in peace knowing that she made an indelible mark on country music history.
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