NASHVILLE, Tenn. — Christian singer-songwriter Steven Curtis Chapman may be well known for his music, but many others recognize him as an advocate who has helped hundreds of couples adopt orphans from other countries.

A number of adoption groups offered their prayers and sympathy to Chapman and his family Thursday, a day after his 5-year-old daughter was accidentally struck and killed by a car driven by her brother. Maria was the youngest of three daughters Chapman and his wife, Mary Beth, adopted from China.

The little girl was hit Wednesday by an SUV driven by her 17-year-old brother, Will Franklin Chapman, in the driveway of their home in Franklin, Tenn., according to Tennessee Department of Safety spokesman Mike Browning.

“We’re investigating and will turn it over to the DA, but every appearance is that it was a terrible accident,” Browning said.

Chapman is one of the most popular contemporary gospel singers, with 16 studio albums, five Grammies and 54 Dove Awards from the Gospel Music Association.

A memorial service will be held today.