Country singer Troy Gentry killed in helicopter crash

Troy Gentry, of the popular country duo Montgomery Gentry, died in a helicopter crash near New Jersey on Friday, his band announced in a statement.

They did not give any details as to how the crash occurred, but thanked fans for their well-wishes during the difficult time.

pic.twitter.com/nLgE0r4z0d

— Montgomery Gentry (@mgunderground) September 8, 2017

Montgomery Gentry was set to perform at Flying W Airport & Resort in NJ, which also houses a concert venue.

Earlier, the resort said on their Facebook page that it was closed for the rest of the day and that the Montgomery Gentry concert had been cancelled, but did not say why.

The Courier-Post in New Jersey reported Gentry’s singing partner, Eddie Montgomery, was at the airport waiting for him to arrive when the helicopter crashed.

The Associated Press said the pilot of the helicopter also died in the crash.

Montgomery Gentry had a string of hits, including Hillbilly Shoes and Headlights, My Town and Something to be Proud Of, throughout their 20 years playing together.

They were inducted in the Grand Ole Opry, one of country music’s highest honours, in 2009.

We are absolutely heartbroken over the passing of #Opry Member Troy Gentry. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends. pic.twitter.com/sNK8rFl7UV

— Grand Ole Opry (@opry) September 8, 2017

Are you sad to hear of Troy’s passing? Are you a fan of country music?