Jackson native, Fisk University student killed in shooting
NASHVILLE, Tenn. — The Metro Nashville Police Department’s Homicide Unit is investigating a shooting that occurred Sunday night on I-65 north at the I-40 interchange involving Jackson native and Fisk University student Andre Bell.
COURTESY: Fisk University
According to MNPD, Bell, 20, and two friends were leaving a gymnastics event when they got onto the interstate in a white Nissan Sentra. Once on the interstate, Bell’s friends reported noticing a dark sedan in the left lane beside them. Both said they were distracted by their cellphones when they suddenly heard multiple gunshots and realized Bell had been shot in the head.
COURTESY: MNPD
The Sentra then slowed and spun back into traffic before colliding with a red pickup truck. Bell was rushed to Vanderbilt University Medical Center.
According to police, evidence suggests that the dark sedan 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.
No motive has been determined at this time.
In a press statement issued Monday, Fisk University mourned the loss of Bell, with Head Men’s Basketball Coach Jeremiah Crutcher describing Bell as a young, bright leader.
Fisk University joins our Athletics Department in mourning the tragic loss of Andre Bell, a sophomore Business Administration major and student-athlete. The following statements are shared with heavy hearts.
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.
Stay tuned on-air and online as we continue to follow this developing story.
For more local crime coverage, click here.
