NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WTVF) — Update as of 3pm Monday:
In a statement, Fisk University said Andre Bell died following the interstate crash. Below are two statements from the school's athletic director and men's basketball coach:
Statement from Valencia Jordan, Athletics Director
"Our Fisk Athletics family is absolutely devastated by the news that one of our own has been taken from us in a senseless act of violence. Andre Bell, a scholar and beloved, integral part of our Men’s Basketball program, was headed back to campus after volunteering to help with our Fisk University gymnastics meet when this tragic incident occurred. Our hearts go out to his family at this most difficult time. We will stand with them and support them in every way possible. We are a family that learns, loves, plays, and prays together and will continue to do so. Counseling is being provided for our team of athletes who are understandably heartbroken."
Statement from Jeremiah Crutcher, Head Coach, Men’s Basketball
"Today, we lost a leader on and off the basketball court. Andre “Dre,” a young, bright, and gentle young man, was unfairly snatched from this world. He was a dominant force on the Fisk University Men’s Basketball team, but he was most remembered for his infectious smile, loving personality, and unique ability to always bring warmth to a room. We now have a deep absence in our program, but more importantly, we have a deep pain in our hearts. He will be truly missed. Our thoughts and unwavering prayers are with his family and the little kids in his family and in Nashville who looked up to him.
With respect to the family’s privacy, no additional statements will be provided from the University at this time."
At least one person was injured in shooting on Sunday night on I-65 North near Exit 82B.
The shooting happened by the I-65, I-40 junction near Fort Negley and the Adventure Science Center.
According to Metro Police, the victim, later identified as 20-year-old Andre Bell is in critical condition.
Police state that Bell and two friends had been at a gymnastics event at the fairgrounds before getting onto the interstate in Bell’s white Nissan Sentra to return to campus.
One of Bell’s friends reported noticing a dark sedan in the left lane beside them before hearing multiple gunshots and realizing that Bell had been struck.
Their vehicle slowed and spun back into traffic before colliding with a red pickup truck. The dark sedan kept going. Bell suffered a gunshot wound to his head and was rushed to Vanderbilt University Medical Center where he is in extremely critical condition.
Evidence suggests that the car from which the shots were fired likely has windshield damage based on the shattered glass at the scene.
Anyone with information on the dark sedan, the person(s) in it, or anyone with dashcam footage from that area just after 8 p.m., is asked to contact Crime Stoppers at 615-742-7463. Callers to Crime Stoppers can remain anonymous and qualify for a cash reward.
Do you have more information about this story? You can email me at newsroom@newschannel5.com.
Here’s a beautiful story of how one mother turned her grief journey into a gathering of gratitude… and organ donation awareness.
Robb Coles highlights a special event organized by Cari Hollis – whose 26-year old son Austin died two years ago. Austin agreed to be an organ donor – and that single gesture saved multiple lives.
Cari reached out to as many recipients she could find – several of whom traveled to Nashville for an emotional celebration in Austin’s honor. One woman – whose life was saved by receiving Austin’s lungs – put it simply: “He’s my angel”.
- Rhori Johnston
