Country music singer Conner Smith will not face criminal charges following a fatal pedestrian accident last summer in Nashville, Tennessee. Prosecutors have withdrawn a misdemeanor citation against Smith stemming from the incident, which resulted in the death of 77-year-old Dorothy “Dot” Dobbins. The decision comes at the request of Dobbins’ family, according to officials.
The Davidson County District Attorney’s Office confirmed the withdrawal of the citation, initially issued for failure to yield the right of way resulting in death, a Class A misdemeanor. This development marks a significant turn in the case, which garnered attention after the rising country star was involved in the tragic collision.
The incident occurred in June 2025, as Dobbins was crossing 3rd Avenue North near Van Buren Street in a marked crosswalk in the Germantown neighborhood. Smith, driving a Chevrolet Silverado, struck Dobbins, who was subsequently transported to Vanderbilt University Medical Center where she later died, as reported by ABC News.
Worrick G. Robinson IV, Smith’s attorney, released a statement expressing gratitude for the opportunity to connect with the Dobbins family. “This devastating accident was a profound tragedy for the family of Dot Dobbins and the larger Germantown community,” Robinson said. “Over the past several months, Conner has been grateful for the opportunity to get to know Dot’s family personally and be able to voice his deep and sincere grief. While he is grateful that this legal chapter has concluded, he will continue to steadfastly lift her family up in prayer.”
The initial charge against Smith was filed in July 2025, following an investigation by the Metropolitan Nashville Police Department. KOMO News reported that police determined Dobbins was in a marked crosswalk when she was struck by Smith’s pickup truck. Witnesses reported Smith immediately rendered aid until paramedics arrived.
Following the accident, community members called for increased pedestrian safety measures at the intersection. City leaders responded by installing yield-for-pedestrian signs and rapid flashing beacons, though some residents argued these improvements were insufficient after a cyclist was subsequently injured in another crash at the same location.
The decision to drop the charges highlights the sensitive nature of the case and the impact of the tragedy on all involved. The withdrawal of the misdemeanor citation, made at the explicit request of the Dobbins family, brings a degree of closure to this chapter, though the pain of loss remains.
While the legal proceedings have concluded, the focus now shifts to continued efforts to improve pedestrian safety in the Germantown neighborhood and prevent future tragedies. The Nashville Department of Transportation will likely continue to evaluate and implement safety enhancements at the intersection of 3rd Avenue North and Van Buren Street.
What comes next remains to be seen, but the community’s commitment to pedestrian safety will undoubtedly remain a priority. Share your thoughts on this story in the comments below.
