James King suffers a parent’s worst nightmare

Tragic news this morning from a bluegrass icon. James King’s 18 year old daughter, Shelby Ann, was killed last night in an automobile accident in Amelia County, VA.

According to Julie King, James’ wife and Shelby’s stepmother, Shelby was driving home from work last night around 6:00 p.m., and was involved in a single vehicle accident. She was the only occupant in the car, which rolled several times. Witnesses reported that Shelby climbed out of the car, and immediately collapsed. Attempts to revive her on the scene were unsuccessful.

Shelby was a talented bluegrass singer in her own right. Here is a brief clip of her on stage two years ago.

 

More information about arrangements will be forthcoming.

Messages can be sent to James at:

The James King Family
P.O. Box 10179
Danville, VA 24543

I’m sure that the entire bluegrass world joins us in extending sincerest condolences to James, Shelby’s mom, and all their many friends and family members.

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About the Author

John Lawless

John had served as primary author and editor for The Bluegrass Blog from its launch in 2004 until being folded into Bluegrass Today in September of 2011. He continues in that capacity here, managing a strong team of columnists and correspondents.