Country artist Conner Smith was behind the wheel of a Chevrolet Silverado when he allegedly struck and killed a pedestrian in Nashville on Saturday, June 8, according to Metro Nashville Police.
The victim, 77-year-old Dorothy Dobbins, was walking inside a marked crosswalk near her home when she was hit. First responders transported her to Vanderbilt University Medical Center, where she was later pronounced dead.
Police say the preliminary cause appears to be Smith failing to yield the right of way. He was not impaired, and no signs of distraction, such as phone use, were reported. At this time, no charges have been filed, though the investigation is ongoing.
Smith’s attorney released a brief statement acknowledging the incident.
“Mr. Smith was involved in a car accident that tragically claimed a life. His heart goes out to Ms. Dobbins’ family during this incredibly difficult time. He continues to cooperate fully with the investigation.”
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Sources close to the singer maintain that the incident was accidental and that Smith was neither intoxicated nor distracted behind the wheel.
The crash occurred on the final day of CMA Fest, the city’s largest country music celebration. Smith, a Nashville native and rising star in the genre, is signed to Big Machine’s Valory label. He was recently nominated for New Male Artist of the Year at the 2024 ACM Awards and released a new single with Dylan Marlowe. He also appears on the upcoming Twisters soundtrack.
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Smith, 24, married surfer Leah Thompson in early 2024. More than a year later, he finds himself at the center of a tragedy that has left a community shaken and a family grieving.
Currently, no further statements have been made by Smith or his label. Metro Police are continuing their investigation into the circumstances surrounding the fatal crash.
