‘The Voice Kids’ Star Dead After Hit-And-Run Tragedy As Police Search For Driver

A former "The Voice Kids" contestant has died in a heartbreaking accident that has left fans and her community in mourning. Nicole Valeria Vargas Gomez, who first gained recognition as a child singer on Colombia’s "La Voz Kids," was killed at just 19 years old after a hit-and-run crash that also claimed the life of another man. Authorities are now actively searching for the driver responsible, who allegedly fled the scene without stopping to help.

The fatal collision occurred on the Circasia–Armenia road in Quindío, Colombia, where Vargas Gomez and 40-year-old William Andrew Paipa were reportedly crossing the street when they were struck by a vehicle. Authorities said the force of the impact threw both victims into the air and onto the opposite side of the roadway. Officials confirmed the driver allegedly fled immediately after the crash. Investigators are currently working to identify and locate the vehicle involved.

In an official statement obtained by Unilad, law enforcement 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. At this time, the individuals can be identified as William Andres Paipa and Nicole Valeria Vargas Gomez.”

Vargas Gomez first captured national attention in 2019 when she appeared on "La Voz Kids" ("The Voice Kids") at just 12 years old. Although she did not advance to the final round, her performances helped her build a loyal fanbase.

She continued pursuing music after the show, performing at festivals and events throughout Colombia while balancing her academic responsibilities.

Beyond her music career, Vargas Gomez was also studying Business Administration at the University of Quindío, where she was actively involved in campus cultural life.

The university released a statement honoring her dedication and artistic contributions. “Nicole was a young woman committed to her academic training and to the cultural life of our alma mater,” the university said. “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.”

The institution also shared a message on X expressing condolences to her family and loved ones.

“With profound sorrow, Rector @LuisferPolania, the Directorate of @BienestarINS, other members of the administration, faculty, and students mourn the passing of Nicole Valeria Vargas Gómez and join together in prayer for her eternal rest," they wrote. "We offer a prayer that your family and loved ones may find strength and comfort in this difficult moment. May your academic and artistic legacy remain forever in the memory of our university community.”

Vargas Gomez’s death comes just weeks after another devastating loss connected to the "Voice" franchise.

Ifunanya Nwangene, a contestant from "The Voice Nigeria," died at age 26 after reportedly being bitten by a poisonous snake at her home in Abuja. The soprano vocalist, who also worked as an architect, had gained attention for her performance of Rihanna’s “Take A Bow,” which accumulated more than 85,000 YouTube views.

Her choir, Amemuso, confirmed the news in a statement. “With painful heart, we announce the [death] of Ifunanya Nwangene Nanyah,” the statement read, adding that Ifunanya “was on the cusp of sharing her incredible talent with the world” and that “her voice and spirit will be deeply missed.”

Law enforcement officials confirmed that the investigation surrounding Nicole Valeria Vargas Gomez remains active as authorities attempt to track down the individual responsible for the crash. The case has drawn attention locally as investigators work to determine the circumstances surrounding the incident and identify the vehicle involved.

For now, officials have not released additional details.