David Wilkerson, author of The Cross and the Switchblade and founder of World Challenge Ministries, died in a car accident today. report is that Wilkerson, 79, was driving and was pronounced dead at the scene.
Wilkerson was driving east on U.S. 175 in Texas Wednesday afternoon, and moved into the opposite lane where a trailer was driving westbound. The trailer driver saw the car and tried to move out of the way, but still collided with the pastor's car head on, according to Public Safety Trooper.
It's unclear what caused Wilkerson to veer into the other lane. His wife Gwen was also involved in the crash and rushed to the hospital, along with the trailer driver.
Wilkerson has more credibility and name recognition than many other online prophets. He is the author of The Cross and the Switchblade, one of the most popular books in history. His Teen Challenge ministry is very prominent in discussions of drug treatment and social service partnerships between church and government. And Times Square Church, which he founded, reportedly draws 8,000 people weekly and is known for its many social services.
David Wilkerson has been a top 10 trending topic on google tonight.
Rich Wilkerson: "The term LEGEND is often used to describe a person of extreme influence but what about a man that supersedes superlatives..david wilkerson"
Joel Houston: "The cross and the switchblade was the first book I ever read. Seeded NYC in my heart. So grateful for the life and legacy of David Wilkerson"