Country musician Conner Smith has faced official charges following an incident where he struck and caused the death of an older woman with his vehicle.
Last Sunday evening, 77-year-old Dorothy Dobbins was walking her dog in Nashville, Tennessee, when Smith is said to have not yielded at a crosswalk in his Chevrolet Silverado pickup truck.
Following the incident, just after 7:30pm, Dobbins was transported to Vanderbilt University Medical Center.
Smith, 24, recognized for his work on "Creek Will Rise" and "Steal My Thunder," was at the location, and authorities stated he "exhibited no indications of being under the influence."
Law enforcement officials stated earlier that an inquiry was "in progress," but it has now been verified that Smith has faced charges for a Class A misdemeanor.
As per a statement issued by the Daily Newspolitan Nashville Police Department today, Smith's official charge is Failure to Yield the Right of Way Leading to Death.
He is required to come for processing on August 7 following a misdemeanor state citation.
As Smith has been accused of a misdemeanor instead of a felony, it suggests he could face a smaller penalty or a shorter period in jail.
Smith's legal representative, Worrick G. Robinson IV, statedTMZConner is deeply thankful to the MNPD for the time and work they put into thoroughly examining this heartbreaking incident and has remained cooperative throughout.
His mind is with Ms. Dobbins' family, and he continues to be dedicated to respecting her memory through kindness by aiding initiatives aimed at enhancing pedestrian safety and preventing further incidents.
Smith also shared a message on Instagram: 'Four weeks ago, I was part of a severe car accident that led to a fatality. Every day since, I have felt sorrow, offered prayers, and mourned for Ms. Dobbins and her family.
My heart is shattered in a way I have never felt before, and I still find it difficult to fully understand the magnitude of it all. I request that you keep praying for the Dobbins family by name, asking God for His peace to envelop them every day.
He added, "In consideration of everyone concerned and to allow room for mourning, I chose to withdraw from performances over the last few weeks. I have always viewed creating music and performing as a source of comfort for me, but at this time, it was essential for me to take a break."
I'm grateful to serve a God who is close to those with broken hearts, and I have relied on Him throughout every stage of my journey," Smith said. "In the face of tragedy, I've discovered that God is more faithful than I could have ever imagined.
Last month, Smith's legal representatives verified toPeoplethat the singer was "involved in a car crash that sadly resulted in a death," once more reflecting his regret.
A statement read, 'His heart is with Ms. Dobbins' family during this very challenging period.' 'Mr. Smith remains fully cooperative with the continuing inquiry.
Smith is a country music performer who was born and brought up in the city, currently residing with his surfer spouse, Leah Thompson, whom he wed last April.
He initially gained recognition in 2021 after his track "I Hate Alabama" became popular on TikTok, which resulted in him joining Big Machine Records, the previous label of Taylor Swift.
The musician achieved great success with his track "Creek Will Rise," which came out in 2023 and has accumulated more than 62 million plays on Spotify.
His first solo studio album came out in January 2024 and was called Smoky Mountains. Following the album's release, his single Creek Will Rise reached number one on the UK Country Airplay chart for the first time ever.
Smith has performed alongside Luke Bryan and contributed to the Twisters soundtrack with his track "Country in the Clouds," which he co-wrote with Dylan Marlowe.
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