Driver who killed Dixie Chicks singer Laura Lynch sentenced to prison

The speeding driver responsible for the Texas car crash that killed Laura Lynch, an original singer for the Dixie Chicks, has been sentenced to more than a decade behind bars.

Lynch, a co-founder of the band, which is now known as the Chicks, died on Dec. 22, 2023, after her vehicle was stuck head-on by a truck driven by Domenick Chavez.

Police said 33-year-old Chavez was traveling between 106 and 114 mph as he attempted to pass four vehicles on a two-lane highway in Hudspeth County before ultimately colliding with Lynch’s truck. His license had also been suspended at the time after two prior DWI convictions. He was able to escape his truck before it burst into flames, but Lynch was pronounced dead on the scene, police said.

On Wednesday, Chavez pleaded guilty to a count of manslaughter in connection with the crash, KFOX 14 reported. El Paso District Attorney James Montoya said his plea was part of an agreement with prosecutors, which saw him sentenced to 15 years in prison.

Lynch, a bass player and singer, founded the Dixie Chicks with Robin Lynn Macy and sisters Martie Maguire and Emily Strayer in 1989.

Lynch and Macy split lead vocal duties until Macy’s departure in 1993. She was later replaced by Natalie Maines in 2005.

Following the fatal collision, the Chicks issued a statement remembering Lynch for her passion and musical contributions.

“We hold a special place in our hearts for the time we spent playing music, laughing and traveling together,” it said.

“Laura was a bright light… her infectious energy and humor gave a spark to the early days of our band,” the statement continued. “Laura had a gift for design, a love of all things Texas and was instrumental in the early success of the band. Her undeniable talents helped propel us beyond busking on street corners to stages all across Texas and the Midwest.”