Conner Smith struck Dorothy Dobbins with his Chevrolet Silverado on June 8, 2025, as she walked in a marked crosswalk near Van Buren Street and 3rd Avenue North.
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Dobbins, who was 77 years old, later died from her injuries at Vanderbilt University Medical Center.
In recognition of her well-lived life, the historic Germantown neighborhood will honor the retired attorney next month.
Was Conner Smith Impaired?
After investigating the accident, the Metro Nashville Police Department found no indications that Smith was impaired or distracted while driving. On July 10, authorities issued him a Class A misdemeanor citation for failure to yield, resulting in death. The charge indicates a lack of criminal intent.
The 25-year-old then made a statement about the accident the next day.
He said, "Not a day has gone by that I haven't grieved, prayed and mourned for Ms. Dobbins and her family."
Later that month, Smith said he spent weeks in isolation to reflect on the incident.
"It's hard to explain the things I've learned through this journey: the intimacy with Jesus I felt, the kindness of community I experienced, the love I've been surrounded by, the way I've felt God protect me in every single way," he wrote. "There's so much to this story that I pray, in time, I will be able to share, but for now, my heart just wants to say thank you."
The "Creek Will Rise" singer returned to performing on July 30 at the Grand Ole Opry. He said his performance was "a chance to begin again, having seen the things that truly matter in life."
How Will Dorothy Dobbins Be Honored?
Dobbins was remembered as a mother, grandmother, and also as an advocate for domestic abuse awareness. Her impact on Nashville is hard to quantify.
One way the Historic Germantown Neighborhood will honor Dobbins is by planting a memorial tree on Nov. 8 at 3 p.m. in Morgan Park. It's located near the crosswalk where the accident took place.
It is there she will be remembered for her contributions to her neighborhood and Music City.
