A rising young singer who touched many hearts on “The Voice Kids” has passed away at 19 after being struck by a hit-and-run driver while crossing a street in western Colombia, authorities said Tuesday, February 24, 2026.
Nicole Valeria Vargas Gomez and 40-year-old William Andres Paipa were killed on the night of Saturday, February 21, on the Circasia-Armenia road in Quindío when an unknown vehicle hit them at around 8:30 p.m. The pair had just exited a truck where they had been working and were crossing the road to collect some items when a car suddenly appeared and collided with them, sending them airborne to the opposite side of the roadway. Police confirmed the driver fled without offering assistance.
Authorities issued a statement outlining the deadly incident: “A traffic accident occurred involving pedestrians being run over by an unidentified vehicle, affecting two individuals who were crossing the road in the restaurant area at El Solar.”
Investigators are examining nearby security footage and attempting to track down the vehicle and driver responsible for the fatal crash. The tragedy has sparked outrage among residents, who are demanding accountability and stronger traffic enforcement in the area.
Vargas Gomez first gained nationwide recognition in 2019 when she appeared on “La Voz Kids” at just 12 years old. That season of the Colombian edition of “The Voice Kids” featured coaches Andrés Cepeda, Sebastián Yatra, and Fanny Lu, with Alejandro Palacio and Laura Tobón as hosts. Although she did not reach the final, her performances helped her develop a loyal following that continued to support her over the years.
After her television debut, Vargas Gomez remained committed to her musical pursuits while managing schoolwork and employment. She performed at festivals throughout Colombia’s Eje Cafetero region and stayed active on social media, frequently sharing videos of her performances and memories from the show that launched her career.
At the time of her passing, Vargas Gomez was in her fifth semester studying Business Administration at the University of Quindío. She was also a member of Coranto, the university’s esteemed vocal and choral ensemble, where she continued to showcase her talents. In addition to her studies and music, she worked as a brand ambassador for Aguardiente Antioqueño, Colombia’s leading anise-flavored spirit.
The University of Quindío issued a heartfelt message honoring their late student. “Nicole was a young woman committed to her academic training and to the cultural life of our alma mater,” officials said. “From the classrooms and also from the stages, she left her mark through her discipline, sensitivity, and deep love for art.”
The institution added that as part of Coranto, she proudly represented the university at every performance and cultural gathering. Rector Luis Fernando Polania joined students and faculty in mourning her loss and offering condolences to her family.
Vargas Gomez’s final social media post, shared just days before the accident, featured her promoting Aguardiente Antioqueño at a local event. Her other posts consistently highlighted her performances across the region, reflecting her unwavering dedication to music and entertainment despite her busy schedule of work and classes.
After news of her death spread, fans and loved ones flooded her final post with condolences. Many expressed heartbreak and support for her family, with one comment capturing a widely shared sentiment: “Now you’re going to bless all those angels with your voice.”
Circasia’s mayor, Julián Andrés Peña, expressed deep sadness over the young artist’s passing and extended his solidarity to her family. Local news outlets also reported that Vargas Gomez was the sister of the current Señorita Circasia beauty queen, adding to the community’s sorrow.
The tragedy comes less than a year after another “The Voice Kids” performer died. Karen Silva, who reached the semifinals of the Brazilian version of the show at age 12, passed away at 17 on April 24, 2025, following a sudden hemorrhagic stroke. Her father told Brazilian media she had shown no signs of illness before collapsing.
William Andres Paipa, who died alongside Vargas Gomez, was a well-known figure in Circasia’s restaurant, bar, and entertainment sectors. Reports indicate he and Vargas Gomez were working together for a liquor company on the night of the crash. His death has also prompted a wave of grief from friends and local colleagues.
Police continue searching for the driver who fled the scene, urging anyone with information about the vehicle or the incident to come forward. Authorities are reviewing surveillance recordings and collecting evidence as they work to obtain justice for the victims and their families.
