REO Speedwagon lead singer Terry Luttrell recently found himself in a frightening car accident in Illinois, resulting in a cracked sternum and a hospital stay. The 78-year-old musician reportedly fell asleep at the wheel while driving on Interstate 57 in Champaign-Urbana, causing his car to roll over.
The incident occurred just a day after Luttrell’s iconic band performed a farewell show at the State Farm Center, where current and former members joined forces for a memorable performance. Following the accident, Luttrell spoke to the News-Gazette from his hospital bed, revealing that he expects to undergo rehab for the next few days as part of his recovery process.
Despite experiencing back and neck pain, Luttrell remains optimistic, stating that his injuries are manageable and will not hinder his overall well-being. The seasoned singer admitted to feeling fatigued after a late-night concert and autograph session with fans, which led to his drowsiness while driving to St. Louis for business.
Recounting the moments leading up to the crash, Luttrell shared that he had left the after-party in the early hours of the morning, only to hit the road shortly thereafter. Unfortunately, his lack of sleep caught up with him, resulting in the car accident that totaled his vehicle. Grateful for the support of the nurses who recognized him from the concert, Luttrell is focused on recuperating and getting back on his feet.
Luttrell’s history with REO Speedwagon dates back to the early 1970s, but he parted ways with the band in 1972 due to personal differences with lead guitarist Gary Richrath. In recent years, the remaining members of REO Speedwagon made the difficult decision to retire from touring, citing health issues among the bandmates as the primary reason for their departure from the music scene.
As fans bid farewell to the iconic rock band, Luttrell’s recent car accident serves as a reminder of the unpredictability of life on the road. Despite the challenges he faces in the aftermath of the crash, the resilient singer remains determined to overcome his injuries and continue pursuing his passion for music.
