Conner Smith Breaks Silence Following Tragic Accident: ‘My Heart Is Broken’

Smith encouraged his fans and followers to “lift the Dobbins family up in prayer by name” following their tragic loss.

By

Lauren Jo Black

| Posted on

July 11, 2025

at

9:39 am

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Conner Smith; Photo by Andrew Wendowski

Conner Smith is speaking out for the first time since the tragic accident in June, when he struck and killed a woman at a Nashville crosswalk while driving his truck.

“Four weeks ago, I was involved in a tragic vehicle accident that resulted in the loss of a life. 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,” his message began. 

Conner Smith; Photo by Andrew Wendowski
Conner Smith; Photo by Andrew Wendowski

Smith then urged his friends and fans to “lift the Dobbins family up in prayer by name” and ask that “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. 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,” he explained. “I am 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.”  

Smith’s statement comes following a misdemeanor citation issued by the Metropolitan Nashville Police Department on Thursday, July 10, a development first reported by TMZ. According to the publication, the misdemeanor traffic offense was for failure to yield, resulting in a fatality. =

On June 8, just hours after performing at CMA Fest, Smith, 24, was involved in a fatal accident that tragically claimed the life of 77-year-old Dorothy Dobbins. She was reportedly transported to Vanderbilt University Medical Center, where she later passed away. Known by her friends and family as “Dot,” Dobbins was a beloved member of the Nashville community and a deeply respected retired attorney.

According to a MNPD release, Smith showed no signs of impairment at the time of the accident and other reports indicate that he was not distracted by his phone. The 24 year old was fully cooperative with the investigation. 

“On June 8th, Mr. Smith was involved in a car accident that tragically claimed a life. His heart goes out to Ms. Dobbins’ family during this incredibly difficult time,” Smith’s attorney, Worrick G. Robinson, shared in a statement at the time.. “Mr. Smith continues to cooperate fully with the ongoing investigation.”    

Conner Smith; Photo by Andrew Wendowski
Conner Smith; Photo by Andrew Wendowski

Conner Smith is best known for songs like “Creek Will Rise,” “I Hate Alabama,” and “Steal My Thunder” featuring Tucker Wetmore. He has toured with artists like Luke Bryan and Thomas Rhett and his latest release is “Country in the Clouds” featuring his friend and tourmate, Dylan Marlowe.  

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Lauren Jo Black

Written by

Lauren Jo Black

Lauren Jo Black, a University of Central Florida graduate, has immersed herself in the world of country music for over 15 years. In 2008, she co-founded CountryMusicIsLove, eventually selling it to a major record label in 2015. Following the rebranding of the website to Sounds Like Nashville, Black served as Editor-in-Chief for two and a half years. Currently, she assumes the role of Editor-in-Chief at Country Now and oversees Country Now’s content and digital footprint. Her extensive experience also encompasses her previous role as a Country Music Expert Writer for Answers.com and her work being featured on Forbes.com. She’s been spotlighted among Country Aircheck’s Women of Influence and received the 2012 Rising Star Award from the University of Central Florida. Black also spent time in front of the camera as host of Country Now Live, which brought live music directly to fans in 2021 when the majority of concerts were halted due to the pandemic. During this time, she hosted 24 weeks of live concerts via Country Now Live on Twitch with special guests such as Lady A, Dierks Bentley, Jordan Davis, Brett Young, and Jon Pardi. Over the course of her career, she has had the privilege of conducting interviews with some of the industry’s most prominent stars, including Reba McEntire, Blake Shelton, Luke Combs, Carrie Underwood, Luke Bryan, Miranda Lambert, Lainey Wilson, and many others. Lauren Jo Black is a longtime member of the Country Music Association and the Academy of Country Music.