Newly released police body camera footage has revealed the tragic final public appearance of acclaimed musician Todd Snider, showing the 59-year-old singer begging for medical help while being arrested outside a Utah hospital just weeks before his death.
The Distressing Arrest Footage
The body cam recording captures Snider's desperate pleas with officers outside Holy Cross Hospital in Salt Lake City, where he had reportedly sought treatment following what was described as "a violent assault" outside his hotel. The footage shows the handcuffed musician telling police: "I have a band, I'm famous - they ditched me" and repeatedly begging to be allowed back into the medical facility.
At one point in the emotional exchange, an officer questions why Snider returned to the hospital after being discharged. The musician responds that he didn't remember being told to leave, adding painfully: "I walked as far as I could and I was in so much pain." Later, he's heard insisting: "Can I please go back to the hospital? Sir, I am sick."
A Career Cut Short
Todd Snider was an influential figure in American music, having released 14 studio albums that blended country, folk, rock, blues and funk. His popular tracks included 'Alright Guy' and 'Talking Reality Television Blues', which was notably covered by music legend Sir Tom Jones. In 2021, he received the honour of being inducted into the Oregon Music Hall of Fame in his hometown of Portland.
The musician's health struggles became public knowledge when tour organisers announced on November 3 that his 'High, Lonesome and Then Some 2025' dates required cancellation. The statement explained: "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." It's now believed Snider was also suffering from an undiagnosed case of pneumonia at the time.
Farewell to a Musical Force
The announcement of Snider's death came via his official Instagram page, which posted a moving tribute to the artist's legacy. "Where do we find the words for the one who always had the right words," the statement began, celebrating his ability to deliver "the most devastating, hilarious, and impactful turn of phrases."
The tribute highlighted Snider's relentless work ethic, noting he "got up every morning and started writing, always working towards finding his place among the songwriting giants that sat on his record shelves." It specifically mentioned his admiration for and mentorship under legendary figures including Guy Clark, John Prine, Kris Kristofferson and Jerry Jeff Walker.
Fans were encouraged to honour Snider's memory by playing his records "loud enough to wake up all of your neighbours or at least loud enough to always wake yourself up." The emotional sign-off read: "We love you Todd, sail on old friend, we'll see you again out there on the road somewhere down the line. You will always be a force of nature."
