Salt Lake City investigators say they have found no proof that acclaimed musician Todd Snider was assaulted during his October visit, concluding instead that his injury was likely the result of a fall inside his tour bus. The findings come just days after Snider’s death from pneumonia and sepsis, conditions unrelated to the incident.
Investigation Finds No Signs of an Attack
According to the final report shared through a public records request, detectives with the Salt Lake City Police Department reviewed hours of surveillance footage, spoke with band members, hotel employees, and Snider’s management, but discovered no indication of an assault.
Police noted that video showed Snider staggering and swaying shortly before returning to his bus on Oct. 31. Interviews suggested he may have been under the influence of drugs or alcohol, though this couldn’t be definitively confirmed.
After returning to his bus around 7:46 p.m., Snider was not seen leaving again. Investigators confirmed that no one else entered the vehicle until nearly an hour later.
Injury Likely Occurred Inside the Tour Bus
Footage and witness accounts indicate Snider’s head injury likely happened between 7:46 p.m. and 8:50 p.m. while he was alone on the bus. A hotel staff member who briefly interacted with him earlier reported that he appeared uninjured at that time.
Several members of the touring crew later found Snider in distress and called EMS the following morning after discovering him with a bloody head wound. He was treated with staples at LDS Hospital and released the same day.
Conflicting Claims From Management
While Snider’s manager, calling from Tennessee, initially reported to police that the musician was “attacked from behind,” investigators say they were never able to speak directly with Snider. All communication was through third-party statements, leaving major portions of the claim unverified.
The manager speculated Snider might have left the hotel to buy food and water, though video confirms he never exited the bus again after returning from the hotel lobby.
Hospital Incident and Later Arrest
After his initial hospital discharge, Snider sought additional medical attention on Nov. 2 but allegedly caused a disturbance, leading to police involvement. He was arrested for trespassing, disorderly conduct, and making threats before flying back to Nashville on Nov. 3.
Snider’s Death Not Linked to Salt Lake City Injury
Snider, 58, died on Nov. 14 in Nashville due to pneumonia and sepsis. Family members declined an autopsy, and investigators concluded that his Salt Lake City injury did not contribute to his death. More information about his legacy and life can be found through his official sources, including the biography of musician Todd Snider and updates from the Salt Lake City Police Department.
Police have officially closed the case, stating they found no evidence of a criminal assault.
