‘American Idol’ alum Mandisa’s death at age 47 still being investigated: police
The Franklin Police Department is “continuing to investigate” the death of “American Idol” alum Mandisa, authorities said in a statement on Monday.
The California native, whose full name was Mandisa Hundley, died at her home in Nashville, Tennessee, on April 18.
Her cause of death is still unknown. She was 47.
Police do not believe that her death was the result of foul play.
“The Franklin Police Department is continuing to investigate the death of a woman found inside a Beamon Dr. residence last Thursday evening,” the statement read. “Over the weekend, a medical examiner identified the deceased individual as Mandisa Hundley, 47. At this time, there is no indication the death was the result of suspicious or criminal activity.”
“The Franklin Police Department sends its condolences to Hundley’s family, friends, and fans,” the statement concluded.
Mandisa appeared on Season 5 of “American Idol.” She studied vocal jazz at American River College in Sacramento, California, and music at Fisk University in Tennessee, and went on to release her debut album, “True Beauty,” in 2007. Her 2013 album, “Overcomer,” won a Grammy for Best Contemporary Christian Music Album.
Mandisa’s death was confirmed by her rep on Friday.
“We can confirm that yesterday Mandisa was found in her home deceased,” the statement read, via People. “At this time we do not know the cause of death or any further details. We ask for your prayers for her family and close knit circle of friends during this incredibly difficult time.”
Christian rock radio station K-LOVE also discussed her passing, saying that the late musician was “known for her huge heart and sincerity.”
“Mandisa loved Jesus, and she used her unusually extensive platform to talk about Him at every turn. Her kindness was epic, her smile electric, her voice massive, but it was no match for the size of her heart,” the station’s media officer, David Pierce, went on.
“Mandisa struggled, and she was vulnerable enough to share that with us, which helped us talk about our own struggles.”
