Music lovers all over the world were left in shock after devastating news about REO Speedwagon’s Terry Luttrell near miss surfaced online. The singer was recently involved in a car accident on June 15, just a day after participating in a farewell concert with current and former members of REO Speedwagon and this has got fans thinking about mortality.
Luttrell was part of the REO Speedwagon band during its early years but he left the group in 1972 due to personal differences with lead guitarist Gary Richrath. However, his contribution to the band cannot be forgotten and his recent union with his former bandmate is a testament to that. In an recent interview, the legendary rock star shared details of the tragic incident that left his car wrecked while he also sustained some injuries.
Terry Luttrell shares details about his car accident
🇺🇸🎸🚗🔥Former REO Speedwagon frontman Terry Luttrell (78) is recovering after a terrifying car crash in Illinois, caused by falling asleep at the wheel just hours after the band’s emotional farewell concert. Luttrell’s vehicle rolled over on I-57 near Champaign-Urbana, but he… pic.twitter.com/LKQP43OItQ
— GoodMorningRooster (@RoosterGM) June 18, 2025
Speaking with The News-Gazette, the 78-year-old who had performed at a show at State Farm Center with his REO Speedwagon bandmates revealed that he fell asleep while driving on the interstate highway of Campaign-Urbana only to wake up to find himself surrounded by deployed airbags, which he described as a protective cocoon in his car which had now turned over.
However, the musician noted that despite the severity of the crash, he managed to free himself from the wreckage, though not without injuries. He explained that the force of the airbag had fractured his sternum, and he also had pain in his back and neck.
Terry Luttrell is grateful to be alive
Luttrell attributed the crash to exhaustion, explaining that after his performance, he had attended a concert afterparty until 2 a.m., after which he spent additional time signing autographs for fans at his hotel until 4:30 in the morning. He noted that fans had brought albums from his bands, Starcastle and REO Speedwagon, and he felt compelled to engage with them despite the late hour.
Despite the incident, Luttrell disclosed that he had no regrets whatsoever about participating in the special concert, which he described as a unique one that would never be repeated.