The investigation into the final days of Todd Snider, the acclaimed country and folk singer-songwriter who died on November 15 after complications from pneumonia, has taken a dramatic turn. Newly released police documents reveal that officers found “no evidence” to support claims that Snider was violently attacked in Salt Lake City earlier this month.
Snider, 59, had been hospitalized in Hendersonville, Tennessee, after canceling the remainder of his 2025 tour, a decision made following a confusing series of incidents in Salt Lake City, Utah, on November 1 — the night he was scheduled to perform at the Commonwealth Room.
Just before showtime, the venue announced that Snider was unable to perform due to injuries from an unspecified incident, and his team later issued a statement claiming the singer had been “violently attacked” outside his hotel. They said he suffered severe head injuries, including wounds caused by “broken glass” that a doctor reportedly removed.
However, Salt Lake City Police now say their investigation does not support the assault narrative.
Arrest Complicates the Timeline
After the alleged attack, Snider went to a local hospital. But according to police documents and body camera footage, he became combative, refused to leave after being discharged, and was ultimately arrested on charges including disorderly conduct, trespassing, and making violent threats.
The video shows Snider appearing confused, unstable, and possibly under the influence, consistent with his long-known struggles with addiction dating back to a serious back injury in the 1990s.
Officers said he attempted to get into a police vehicle multiple times and insisted he was “not homeless,” telling officers that he “has a band” and is “famous.”
Police Say Video Tells a Different Story
The alleged assault was initially reported to police by Snider’s manager in Nashville, who told officers Snider had been struck in the head with a bottle outside his hotel. But surveillance footage viewed by investigators contradicts that claim.
According to the Salt Lake City Police Department, Snider was seen walking normally from the hotel to his tour bus without any visible injuries. Staff described him as “swaying and walking slightly off balance,” but not harmed.
Later, his band members visited him on the bus before leaving for dinner. When they returned, they found Snider distressed and yelling. Officers now believe his injuries happened during this period.
Their conclusion:
Snider likely fell inside the bus, causing the head injuries himself.
The final report states:
“We are unable to confirm that an assault occurred. It is likely that Todd may have fallen on the tour bus and struck his head causing the injury.”
Investigators added that Snider may have believed he was assaulted after regaining consciousness and noticing his injuries.
A Tragic End to a Storied Career
Snider’s unexpected death days later has only intensified public speculation about the chaotic events that preceded his hospitalization. Known for his sharp songwriting, cult following, and outspoken storytelling, Snider leaves behind a long legacy in American folk and country music.
Learn more about his musical contributions via the Country Music Hall of Fame or review the official statement from the Salt Lake City Police Department.
