Maggie Dunn’s Mother Speaks Out After John Foster’s Heartfelt Idol Performance

John Foster, a Louisiana native and LSU student aspiring to become an oncologist, captured the nation’s attention when he made it to the Top 14 of American Idol 2025. However, it was his Top 20 performance that truly resonated with viewers.

Foster took to the stage to perform an emotional original ballad titled “Tell That Angel I Love Her”—a song he wrote just days after losing two close friends in a tragic New Year’s Eve accident in 2022.

“I wrote this for the two sweet angels we lost,” Foster said, referring to Maggie Dunn and Caroline Gill. “Maggie was one of my best friends, and Caroline was a dear friend I regret not getting to know better.” The heartfelt lyrics left a deep emotional impact on both the audience and the judges:

“Each tear that falls on my guitar
Is a hug from afar
Lord, won’t you tell that angel I love her?
As y’all live in the stars.”

Maggie Dunn’s Mother Reacts: “My Heart Just Melted”

Following Foster’s powerful performance, he pointed toward the audience where Maggie Dunn’s mother, Erin Martin, was sitting, visibly emotional. With hands over her heart, Martin watched the tribute with tears in her eyes.

In a later interview with WBRZ, Martin shared, “My heart just melted.”

She recalled how Maggie and John became close friends in middle school and shared a special photo of Maggie attending Foster’s very first live performance—made even more significant by the fact that John wore the same hat during his American Idol tribute.

“For John Foster to write and perform this song, it’s a real testament to the light and love that Maggie left behind,” Martin said.

While nothing can bring her daughter back, Martin expressed hope that Foster’s performance could inspire change.

“For a moment, millions of people were thinking about my child. Maybe one of them has the power to make a difference in how police pursuits are handled.”

What Happened to Maggie Dunn and Caroline Gill?

The tragic story behind Foster’s song dates back to New Year’s Eve 2022, when Maggie Dunn (17) and Caroline Gill (16) lost their lives in a high-speed police chase gone wrong.

Addis Police Officer David Cauthron ran a red light while pursuing a fugitive at 86 mph, colliding with the girls’ vehicle. The crash killed both teens and severely injured Maggie’s brother, Liam Dunn, who survived after extensive medical treatment.

According to WBRZ News, Officer Cauthron never applied the brakes. In 2023, he was sentenced to 32 years in prison, with 22 years suspended. He will serve 10 years and will be required to speak at schools and law enforcement events to raise awareness about the dangers of reckless police pursuits.

A Performance That May Spark Change

John Foster’s tribute was more than just a performance—it was a poignant act of remembrance, a call for compassion, and an important moment of awareness for viewers across the country.

Our thoughts are with the families of Maggie Dunn, Caroline Gill, and all those affected by this heartbreaking tragedy.

🎥 Watch John Foster’s moving performance of “Tell That Angel I Love Her” below and help honor Maggie and Caroline’s legacy by sharing this story.