REO Speedwagon’s Terry Luttrell Injured in Car Accident After Falling Asleep at the Wheel
Former REO Speedwagon vocalist Terry Luttrell, 78, was involved in a car accident after falling asleep while driving, resulting in a cracked sternum requiring hospitalization. The incident occurred on Sunday morning following a reunion concert in Champaign, Illinois, as confirmed by state police to Fox News Digital. Luttrell, who joined the band in 1967 and left in 1972 before returning for a one-off performance, told The News-Gazette that he had stayed at the concert’s after party until 2 a.m., signing autographs for fans. The crash on Interstate 57 left his car totaled, and he suffered a cracked sternum from the airbag deployment. Although he was able to exit the vehicle, he is expected to require several more days of hospitalization and rehabilitation for his injuries. Luttrell described the accident as a sudden occurrence, noting he had felt ‘a little bit sleepy’ due to inadequate rest after the long night of signing sessions.
Luttrell, who had returned to front the band for a one-time performance, expressed satisfaction with the farewell concert, which he described as ‘a good show all the way around.’ He emphasized the positive experience of the event, stating it was ‘exactly what we thought it was going to be.’ The band had recently announced plans to stop touring due to ‘irreconcilable differences,’ and Luttrell’s accident highlights the personal and professional challenges faced by the group. Despite the incident, he remains optimistic about his recovery and the overall success of the concert. Cronin, who replaced Luttrell in 1972 and returned to the band for the one-off show, expressed his support for Luttrell, offering well-wishes for his speedy recovery.
Following the accident, Luttrell reflected on the late-night signing sessions and the camaraderie of the fans, which he described as a ‘fun evening.’ The event marked the end of an era for REO Speedwagon, which had planned to discontinue touring due to internal issues. While Luttrell’s hospitalization underscores the risks associated with fatigue and sleep deprivation while driving, he remains grateful for the opportunity to reunite with the band and perform for fans. His case serves as a reminder of the potential dangers of drowsy driving, a topic that has drawn attention from public health officials in recent years. As the band navigates its future without Luttrell, the incident offers a glimpse into the personal challenges faced by those in the music industry.
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