Acclaimed American singer-songwriter Todd Snider was captured on police body camera footage pleading for medical help during his arrest outside a Utah hospital, just weeks before his tragic death at the age of 59.
The tragic hospital arrest
Body cam footage from earlier this month shows the musician being handcuffed by officers outside Holy Cross Hospital in Salt Lake City. The 59-year-old, who had sustained serious injuries from what was described as "a violent assault" outside his hotel, can be heard telling police: "I have a band, I'm famous - they ditched me" and repeatedly begging to be let back into the medical facility.
An officer is heard questioning Snider about why he returned to the hospital after being discharged, to which the musician responded: "I walked as far as I could and I was in so much pain." Later in the footage, Snider insists he still requires medical attention, pleading: "Can I please go back to the hospital? Sir, I am sick."
A celebrated musical legacy
Todd Snider had built an impressive career spanning decades, having released 14 studio albums that blended country, folk, rock, blues, and funk. His popular songs included 'Alright Guy' and 'Talking Reality Television Blues', which was notably covered by Sir Tom Jones.
In 2021, Snider received one of his hometown's highest honours when he was inducted into the Oregon Music Hall of Fame in Portland. His Instagram announcement described him as someone who "could almost always find the humor in this crazy ride on Planet Earth" and who "relayed so much tenderness and sensitivity through his songs."
Cancelled tour and tragic outcome
On November 3, an update informed fans that Snider's 'High, Lonesome and Then Some 2025' tour dates were being cancelled following the incident. The statement read: "Ahead of Todd Snider's show in Salt Lake City, Todd sustained serious injuries as the victim of a violent assault outside of his hotel."
The statement continued: "Todd will be unable to perform for an undetermined amount of time. We deeply apologise for the cancellation and any inconvenience it causes. We appreciate your understanding as Todd receives needed medical treatment."
It's believed Snider was suffering from an undiagnosed case of pneumonia at the time of these events. His death was announced on his official Instagram page with a moving tribute that encouraged fans to "put on one of your favourite Todd Snider records and 'play it loud enough to wake up all of your neighbours'."
