Conner Smith is speaking out after a fatal accident he was involved in last month, which claimed the life of 77-year-old Dorothy Dobbins. Dobbins was in a crosswalk in Nashville on June 8, when Smith unintentionally ran over her with his Chevy Silverado. Dobbins later succumbed to her injuries.
Smith subsequently canceled some of his shows, while he processed the tragedy. The singer, who was not under the influence of drugs or alcohol at the time of the accident, has been charged with a misdemeanor, with the charge officially coming on Thursday, July 10.
Smith is now speaking out publicly about the accident, for the first time, sharing his overwhelming sorrow over the tragic event.
“Four weeks ago, I was involved in a tragic vehicle accident that resulted in the loss of a life,” Smith writes on social media. “Not a day has gone by that I haven’t grieved, prayed, and mourned for Ms. Dobbins and her family. My heart is broken in a way I’ve never experienced, and I still struggle to fully process the weight of it all. I ask that you continue to lift the Dobbins family up in prayer by name, asking for God’s peace to surround them each day.”
“Out of respect for everyone involved and to give space for grieving, I made the decision to step away from shows these past few weeks,” he continues. “I have always found that making music and playing shows is a place of healing for me – but for this moment, it was important for me to take time away. I’m thankful to serve a God who is near to the brokenhearted, and I have leaned on Him every step of the way. Through tragedy, I have learned that God is more faithful than I could have ever known before.”
View this post on Instagram
Smith’s mother, Jennifer Smith, a popular podcaster, commented on her son’s statement.
“You have walked every step of this road that no one would choose to travel with strength and beauty, with a posture of faith and trust in Him,” she writes. “I’m so proud of who you are.”
Smith’s attorney, Worrick G. Robinson IV, also issued a statement on Smith’s behalf.
“Conner is incredibly grateful to the [Metro Nashville Police Department] or their time and efforts to carefully investigate this tragic accident and has continued to cooperate at all times,” he said (via People). “His thoughts remain with Ms. Dobbins’ family, and he remains committed to honoring her memory with compassion by supporting efforts to improve pedestrian safety and help prevent future tragedies.”
Smith’s freshman Smoky Mountains album was released in January of 2024. The record includes his hit single, “Creek Will Rise.” Currently, Smith’s next show is scheduled for August 2 in Carey, Ohio.
Find all of Smith’s music and upcoming shows at ConnerSmithMusic.com.