Kenny Chesney Mourns Death of Friend, Who Was Killed in a Helicopter Crash

Kenny Chesney is mourning the death of his friend Maria Rodriguez, who was tragically killed in a helicopter crash.

The 52-year-old country singer took to Instagram to share a slideshow of photos of Maria and he wrote a touching tribute to her.

“Today I have to say a very hard goodbye to my friend Maria Rodriguez in the Virgin Islands. Maria and others were killed today in a helicopter crash in St. Thomas,” Kenny said.

He continued, “She was a dear friend to me and to our island community. I have been flying with Maria for over 15 years and we shared a lot of laughs and a lot of life together. She was always the first person I saw when I landed and the last person I said goodbye to when I would leave island. I’m sure going to miss that. It’s fair to say I won’t ever be able to go to the Virgin Islands again without feeling the loss of her. She was such a huge part of my island life.”

“So goodbye sweet friend. I’m sure glad our paths crossed on this side. See you on the other,” he concluded.

It was reported on Monday (February 15) that four people died in a helicopter crash in St. Thomas, but little is known about the crash at this point.

We’re sending our thoughts and condolences to all of the victims’ loved ones during this difficult time.