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Rising country music star charged after fatal crash killed 77-year-old woman

Police indicated Smith showed no signs of impairment at the time of the crash, which happened as he was in his hometown for a music festival.
Credit: Amy Harris/Invision/AP
Conner Smith arrives at "Opry 100: A Live Celebration" on Wednesday, March 19, 2025, at The Grand Ole Opry House in Nashville, Tenn.

WASHINGTON — Rising country music star Conner Smith has been charged for a deadly crash last month in his hometown of Nashville that killed a 77-year-old woman crossing the street

The Metropolitan Nashville Police Department said Smith was issued a misdemeanor citation Thursday night after an investigation by authorities. Smith was charged with Failure to Yield the Right of Way Resulting in Death (a Class A misdemeanor).

According to investigators, Smith was driving a Chevrolet Silverado pickup truck on June 8 when he hit Dorothy Dobbins, 77, while she crossed a street inside a marked crosswalk.

"After Dobbins was struck, witnesses reported Smith ran to her to render aid until NFD paramedics arrived," Nashville police said in its release about the charges.  

Dobbins was rushed to Vanderbilt University Medical Center where she died.

Police said Smith showed no signs of impairment or distracted driving at the time of the crash. 

“Conner is incredibly grateful to the MNPD for their time and efforts to carefully investigate this tragic accident and has continued to cooperate at all times,” Smith's lawyer said in a statement to 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, who was born and raised in Nashville, was back in his hometown to perform during CMA Fest, a four-day festival of country music. 

The country singer rose to fame with his viral hit "I Hate Alabama" and released his debut album, "Smoky Mountains," in 2024, and was nominated for New Male Artist of the Year at the ACM Awards last year. 

In the aftermath of the crash, Smith has dropped out of a handful of concerts. According to his tour calendar, his next shows are scheduled for early August. 

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