on september 8, 2017, gentry died in a helicopter crash while taking a helicopter tour of medford, new jersey, where he and montgomery were set to perform that evening. through social media, the band released the following statement: "it is with great sadness that we confirm that troy gentry, half of the popular country duo, montgomery gentry, was tragically killed in a helicopter crash which took place at approximately 1:00 p.m. today in medford, new jersey." on september 14, 2017, a public memorial service for gentry was held at the grand ole opry in nashville. on november 5, 2018, the final national transportation safety board report was issued, with the accident being primarily attributed to the pilot's "" failure to maintain rotor rpm... which resulted in an uncontrolled descent.""