NASHVILLE, TN – Rising country star Conner Smith was involved in a tragic car accident over the weekend that resulted in the death of a pedestrian. The Metropolitan Nashville Police Department confirmed that the 24-year-old singer struck 77-year-old Dorothy Dobbins on Sunday, June 8, as she crossed a marked crosswalk in the city.
Dobbins was transported to Vanderbilt University Medical Center, where she later died from her injuries despite efforts by medical staff. Authorities stated that the preliminary cause of the crash was Smith’s failure to yield the right of way to the pedestrian. Police noted that Smith was not impaired nor distracted by a cellphone at the time of the incident.
“Preliminary findings suggest the contributing factor in this tragic accident was the driver’s failure to yield,” the department said. “There is no evidence of impairment or distraction.” Witnesses also confirmed that Smith remained at the scene and cooperated with officers, who allowed him to leave after completing their initial review.
Smith’s legal team released a statement expressing his condolences: “His heart goes out to Ms. Dobbins’ family during this incredibly difficult time. Mr. Smith continues to cooperate fully with the ongoing investigation.” No charges have been filed as of Monday, though the case remains under active review.
The fatal collision took place on the last day of Nashville’s annual CMA Fest, a major country music event that draws thousands of fans and top performers. Smith had performed earlier that same day with fellow artist Dylan Marlowe, and had made additional appearances at other festival-related events over the weekend.
Conner Smith is signed to Big Machine Records’ Valory label and released his debut album Smoky Mountains in 2024. He has toured with major country acts including Luke Bryan and was nominated for New Male Artist of the Year at this year’s ACM Awards. The accident has cast a somber note over his career and the Nashville music community.
As the investigation continues, police are reviewing all evidence to determine if any charges are warranted. In the meantime, the community is mourning the loss of Dorothy Dobbins, remembered as a beloved member of the local area. Further updates from law enforcement are expected in the coming days.
