Country singer Conner Smith has spoken publicly for the first time about a deadly car crash that occurred in June, sharing an emotional message on social media.
According to the Daily Caller, Smith revealed that he has spent the past several weeks grieving and has temporarily stepped away from performing following a fatal accident involving a pedestrian in a crosswalk.
The tragic incident took place in June, when Smith’s Chevrolet Silverado struck Dorothy Dobbins, a 77-year-old woman who was crossing at a marked pedestrian crosswalk. Emergency responders transported Dobbins to a nearby hospital, but she later died from her injuries. The crash happened four weeks before Smith issued his statement.
Smith Breaks Silence Four Weeks Later
On Friday, Smith addressed the collision for the first time in a written statement posted to his Instagram page. Calling it a “tragic vehicle accident,” the singer expressed deep sorrow over Dobbins’ death. He said the heartbreaking experience has changed him and caused unimaginable pain.
“Not a day has gone by that I haven’t grieved, prayed, and mourned for Ms. Dobbins and her family,” Smith wrote in his statement. “My heart is broken in a way I’ve never experienced, and I still struggle to fully process the weight of it all.” The artist also asked fans and followers to support the family of Dorothy Dobbins through continued prayer. “I ask that you continue to lift the Dobbins family in prayer by name, asking for God’s peace to surround them each day,” he said.
Performer Stepped Away From the Stage
In the weeks since the crash, Smith has paused all public performances. He shared that this decision was made out of respect for the Dobbins family and to give space for healing. During his absence, the country performer said he has spent the time reflecting and mourning privately.
“Out of respect for everyone involved and to give space for grieving, I decided to step away from shows these past few weeks,” he explained. This break from the public eye was something Smith felt was necessary, despite his connection to performing.
He wrote candidly about how music has always offered him emotional relief. “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 said.
Faith Has Been Central to Smith’s Healing
Throughout the emotional statement, Smith emphasized the role of his Christian faith as a sturdy foundation during this difficult period. He described leaning on his spiritual beliefs following the tragedy. In referencing religious scripture, he indicated that these beliefs have provided him with strength and insight.
“I’m thankful to serve a God who is near to the brokenhearted, and I have leaned on Him every step of the way,” Smith wrote. He added, “Through tragedy, I have learned God is more faithful than I could have ever known before.”
He concluded the statement by referencing Psalm 91, a Bible passage often associated with protection and comfort. The singer did not indicate when he plans to return to performing or whether any future statements will be made regarding the incident.
No Immediate Plans Announced for Return
Since releasing the statement, Smith has not clarified when or if he will return to touring or performing. The temporary departure from the stage appears to be open-ended as he continues to process the aftermath of the collision.
There has been no announcement regarding any legal developments related to the crash. The statement focused solely on expressing remorse, honoring the victim, and sharing Smith’s emotional journey since the accident occurred.
As the country music community and Smith's audience process this tragic event, many have expressed support and condolences for both the Dobbins family and Smith himself. His candid and heartfelt message appears to have resonated with listeners as a gesture of sincere accountability and sorrow.
