The “Fancy Like” singer recently shared heartbreaking news about his family’s loss.
Country artist Walker Hayes announced on social media that their beloved dog, Hazel, was hit by a car and sadly did not survive.
Hayes expressed gratitude towards the young man who came to his door to tell his family about the accident. He said he was impressed by the man’s bravery.
“We’re so sad. Hazel got hit by a car today,” Hayes wrote. “I am so grateful the young man who hit her had the courage to knock on our door and let us know. Despite the circumstances, I was blown away by his kindness. I didn’t even get his name so if you are him. Thank you.”
Reflecting on the situation, Hayes acknowledged that their street “isn’t that busy,” and they had become too relaxed about letting their dogs roam without leashes. He admitted that the accident was more their responsibility than the driver’s.
Hayes revealed that the family got Hazel as a source of comfort for them during their grief.
Walker Hayes and his wife, Laney, have six children. They previously experienced the tragedy of losing their seventh child, Oakleigh, in 2018 due to birth complications.
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Hazel provided them with companionship and was a source of affection, even though Hayes admitted it might not have been the healthiest way to cope.
“We knew we couldn’t replace what we had lost but Hazel was something to hold. Something to wake up with in the middle of the night, etc. I know…maybe not the healthiest answer to grief but we sure fell in love with her,” Hayes shared.
The dog was known for her introverted nature, bonding closely with the family while being wary of strangers. Burying Hazel was a difficult experience for them. Hayes said that her favorite place to sit was “in a pile of laundry fresh out of the dryer.”
“Losing a dog physically hurts. And watching the family hurt is such a hopeless feeling. But we buried Hazel together. We cried and laughed talking about her…God, thank you for Hazel. Please help us not be sad,” Hayes ended his post.
Our hearts go out to the Hayes family during this difficult time. See his full post below.