Steven Curtis Chapman's Daughter Killed in Tragic Accident

NASHVILLE, TN - At approximately 5pm on the afternoon of Wednesday May 21st, Maria Sue Chapman, 5 years old and the youngest daughter to Steven and Mary Beth Chapman was struck in the driveway of the Chapman home in Franklin, TN. Maria was rushed to Vanderbilt Childrens Hospital in Nashville, transported by LifeFlight, but died of her injuries there. Maria is one of the close knit family’s six children and one of their three adopted daughters.

More than five years ago, Chapman and his wife MaryBeth founded The Shaohannah’s Hope Ministry after bringing their first adopted daughter, Shaohannah, home from China. The ministry’s goal is to help families reduce the financial barrier of adoption, and has provided grants to over 1700 families wishing to adopt orphans from around the world. Chapman is a five-time GRAMMY ® winner and 54-time Dove Award winning artist who has sold over 10 million albums and garnered 44 No. 1 singles.

Additional information: (as provided by the GMA)

Statement from GMA President/CEO John W. Styll:
"I am heartbroken for the Chapman family, as I know everyone in the gospel music community is. Anyone who has ever listened to Steven’s songs or attended his concerts knows, his family has always been more important to him than music. And inspired by his love for his three adopted Chinese daughters, he has used his music platform to passionately promote adoption. Losing their little Maria is a tragedy beyond comprehension and we extend our community’s arms to Steven, Mary Beth and their children during this difficult time."

For those wanting to express support, the Chapman family has requested that any gifts be directed to Shaohannah's Hope, the foundation supporting adoption efforts that Steven and Mary Beth started five years ago when they brought their daughter Shaohannah home from China. The foundation's goal is to help families reduce the financial barrier of adoption, and has provided grants to over 1,700 families wishing to adopt orphans from around the world, according to a press release. Additional details are available on Chapman’s Web site at www.stevencurtischapman.com.

Anyone wishing to express their condolences may do so though the mail by writing to P.O. Box 150156. Nashville, TN 37215.

A public memorial service for Maria Chapman will be held on Saturday, May 24 at 11 a.m. at Christ Presbyterian Church in Nashville.