Nell Smith has tragically passed away at the age of 17.

The 17-year-old’s death was announced by her family. Credit: nellsmithmusic/Instagram

The heartbreaking news was confirmed in a statement shared to Instagram by her family, who confirmed that Smith died on Saturday (October 5).

Taking to the social media platform on Monday evening, Smith’s loved ones wrote to her fans: “It pains us so much to say that our feisty, talented, unique, beautiful daughter was cruelly taken from us on Saturday night.

“We are reeling from the news and don’t know what to do or say.

“She had so much more to experience and to give this world but we are grateful that she got to experience so very much in her 17 years. She has left an indelible mark on the word and an unfillable chasm in our hearts.”

The statement concluded: “Hold your kids extra tight tonight and for now please leave us to work through things. We will shout when we need you. Jude, Rachel, Jed and Ike.”

Smith was a Canadian music prodigy who had collaborated with The Flaming Lips on their cover album Where The Viaduct Looms.

TMZ reports that Smith was due to have her first solo album released by record label, Bella Union, according to the company’s owner, Simon Raymonde.

In a tribute shared to the record label’s Instagram page, Raymonde stated: “Our hearts are so broken after hearing about the tragic passing of Nell.

“She’ll always be remembered for her sweetness, intelligence and wonderful talent. It’s hard to put into words but we extend all our love to her family and friends.”

Flaming Lips frontman Wayne Coyne paid tribute to Smith during a concert in Portland, Oregon, on Sunday.

Credit: nellsmithmusic/Instagram

In footage from the event, filmed by a fan, 63-year-old Coyne said: “We have a very sad announcement to make tonight. We have a Canadian friend, her name is Nell. … We got some very sad messages today that she was killed in a car accident last night and we’re reminded once again of the power of music.”

Smith’s family has yet to confirm the teenager’s cause of death.

Our thoughts go out to Smith’s family, friends, and fans at this time.