Andre Bell, a 20-year-old sophomore and standout basketball player at Fisk University, was killed in a shooting on a Nashville interstate late Sunday night, authorities confirmed.
Bell, a Business Administration major and valued member of the Fisk Bulldogs men’s basketball team, was driving northbound on Interstate 65 near the I-40 interchange with two friends after attending a university gymnastics event when the incident occurred. According to the Metropolitan Nashville Police Department (MNPD), a dark-colored sedan pulled beside Bell’s vehicle, and multiple gunshots were fired. Bell was struck in the head.
After being shot, Bell’s vehicle slowed, spun back into traffic and collided with a red pickup truck. The suspect vehicle did not stop and continued traveling on the interstate, police said. Investigators believe the shooter’s car may have windshield damage, based on glass evidence at the scene.
Bell was rushed to Vanderbilt University Medical Center in critical condition and died from his injuries on Monday, school officials and police reported. The MNPD Homicide Unit is leading the investigation, and authorities have not yet identified a motive or suspects. Anyone with information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers.
Fisk University community in mourning
Fisk University released statements expressing deep sorrow over Bell’s death, describing him as a leader both on and off the court with an “infectious smile” and a warm personality that touched teammates and classmates alike. Head men’s basketball coach Jeremiah Crutcher said Bell’s loss leaves “a deep absence in our program” and “deep pain in our hearts.”
Athletics Director Valencia Jordan added that counseling services were being made available to students and teammates as the campus grapples with the unexpected tragedy.
Bell, originally from Jackson, Tennessee, had joined Fisk’s basketball program after a notable high school career at Sacred Heart of Jesus High School and was seen as both a promising athlete and a committed student. His passing has sent shockwaves through the HBCU community and beyond, with peers, faculty, and supporters remembering his bright future that was cut far too short.
The MNPD continues to seek public assistance as the investigation unfolds.
