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Blake Shelton is still shocked and heartbroken following the “unthinkable” tragedy in his home state. Six teens were killed in a car crash this week in Tishomingo, Oklahoma. For Shelton, it hits close to home not only because it happened in the same small Oklahoma city where he owns a ranch, but because Shelton knows the pain of losing a loved one in a car wreck firsthand: Richie, his 24-year-old brother, died in a crash in 1990. Shelton said in a statement to PEOPLE:
“In the wake of yesterday's unthinkable crash in our small town of Tishomingo, we as a community have all been in shock and broken-hearted. I personally know the devastation of suddenly losing a loved one in a car accident. But our community is strong and has come together to support and wrap our arms around the families and friends that are hurting the most.
“There's no question it will take a long time to heal from this tragedy. Keep the prayers coming.”
The Johnston County Sheriff’s Office alerted local drivers to avoid the site of the collision on Tuesday (March 22). The agency responded to the scene, along with the Tishomingo Police Department, the Oklahoma Highway Patrol and others. “Our prayers are with each of the families involved and our community. This is an absolute tragedy which will have life long effects,” the sheriff’s office stated. “This community and families need our support and prayers at this time.”