The Flaming Lips are currently navigating two heart-wrenching situations involving young individuals who were closely connected to the band.
On October 7, it was reported that Nell Smith, a rising star and collaborator with The Flaming Lips on a 2021 album of Nick Cave covers, tragically passed away on October 5. During a show the following day, lead vocalist Wayne Coyne shared the devastating news with concertgoers, revealing that Smith “was killed in a car accident last night.”
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Smith’s family confirmed the heartbreaking news through her Instagram account, expressing their sorrow in a statement: “It pains us so much to say that our feisty, talented, unique, beautiful daughter was cruelly taken from us.” They shared a collection of her photos, highlighting the joy she brought during her fleeting 17 years, while acknowledging the profound loss they now face.
In a touching reminder, they urged parents everywhere to “hold your kids extra tight tonight,” a sentiment reflecting the suddenness of their grief.
This tragedy comes just a day after The Flaming Lips announced that Steven Drozd’s 16-year-old daughter, Charlotte “Bowie” Drozd, has gone missing. Charlotte was last seen boarding a monorail near Seattle’s iconic Space Needle on October 5, coinciding with Smith’s tragic death. She is described as a 16-year-old white female with brown hair and eyes, standing about 5 feet 7 inches tall and weighing around 130 pounds.
The Seattle Police Department is actively searching for Charlotte, who was last known to have been headed toward downtown Seattle. Anyone with information on her whereabouts is urged to contact the police at 205-625-5011 or reach out to Becky Drozd at 405-831-6795.