The Fisk University basketball community is in mourning after one of its players, 20-year-old forward Andre Bell, was shot and killed while driving in Nashville. The tragic incident has led to the postponement of an upcoming game as authorities launch a homicide investigation.
Details of the Fatal Shooting
According to the Metropolitan Nashville Police Department (MNPD), the incident occurred on Sunday evening just after 8pm. Andre Bell, a sophomore originally from Tennessee, was driving back to campus with two friends. They had just attended a gymnastics event at a nearby fairgrounds where Bell had been volunteering.
While travelling on the I-65 north highway, Bell's friends noticed a dark sedan in the left lane beside them. Police reports state that the occupants were distracted by their mobile phones when they suddenly heard multiple gunshots. They then realised Bell, who was driving his white Nissan Sentra, had been hit.
The vehicle slowed and spun into traffic, colliding with a red pickup truck. The dark sedan, from which the shots were fired, continued driving. Evidence at the scene suggests the suspect's car may have sustained windshield damage from the gunfire.
Bell suffered a critical gunshot wound to the head and was rushed to Vanderbilt University Medical Center. He tragically succumbed to his injuries on Monday.
University Response and Game Postponement
The Fisk Bulldogs, a historically black college and university (HBCU) programme, have postponed their scheduled game against Voorhees University this Thursday. A team spokesman confirmed the postponement to the Daily Mail, noting the schools are working to reschedule.
Currently, Saturday's away game at Talladega College remains on the schedule. The team's next home game is set for Saturday, January 24, against Wilberforce University.
In a heartfelt statement, Fisk Athletics Director Valencia Jordan said the athletics family was "absolutely devastated by the news that one of our own has been taken from us in a senseless act of violence." She confirmed Bell was returning from volunteering at the university's gymnastics meet. Counselling is being provided for the team's grieving athletes.
Tributes and Police Appeal
Fisk basketball coach Jeremiah Crutcher paid tribute to Bell, describing him as a "leader on and off the basketball court" and a "dominant force." He highlighted Bell's "infectious smile, loving personality, and unique ability to always bring warmth to a room." Bell was studying Business Administration at the university.
The MNPD's Homicide Unit is investigating, but a motive remains unclear. Police are urgently appealing for information, particularly from anyone with dashcam footage from the I-65 area around the time of the shooting. They are also searching for the dark sedan involved.
Anyone with information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 615-742-7463.
