College Basketball Player, 20, Killed in Shooting on Highway While Driving Back to Campus with Friends

A 20-year-old college basketball player was fatally shot on a Nashville interstate on Sunday, Jan. 11.

Andre Bell, a sophomore at Fisk University, studied Business Administration and played on the school’s basketball team, the university said in a statement. Bell, who was originally from Jackson, Tenn., died at Vanderbilt University Medical Center on Monday, Jan. 12, according to the Metropolitan Nashville Police Department.

The Metropolitan Nashville Police Department’s Homicide Unit is investigating the shooting, which occurred on I-65 North at the I-40 interchange on Sunday, Jan. 11, police said.

“The motive is undetermined at present,” police said.

Police said the investigation so far indicates Bell and two friends attended a gymnastics event at the fairgrounds before getting onto the interstate in Bell’s white Nissan Sentra to return to campus. Bell’s friends told investigators they noticed a dark sedan traveling in the left lane beside them.

Both passengers reported they were distracted by their cellphones when they suddenly heard multiple gunshots and realized Bell had been hit, police said. The Sentra then slowed and spun back into traffic before colliding with a red pickup truck, according to investigators. The dark sedan continued driving, police said, adding that Bell suffered a gunshot wound to the head.

Investigators said evidence suggests the vehicle from which the shots were fired may have windshield damage, citing shattered glass found at the scene.

Fisk Athletics Director Valencia Jordan said the university’s athletics department was “absolutely devastated” by Bell’s death, calling it a “senseless act of violence.” Jordan added that Bell had been returning to campus after volunteering to help with the university’s gymnastics meet when the shooting occurred.

Jordan also said the university is providing counseling for student-athletes affected by the loss.

Fisk basketball coach Jeremiah Crutcher remembered Bell as a leader on and off the court, describing him as a “young, bright, and gentle young man.” Crutcher said that while Bell was a “dominant force” during games, he was most often remembered for his smile, personality, and ability to make others feel welcome.

“We now have a deep absence in our program, but more importantly, we have a deep pain in our hearts,” Crutcher said, adding that the team’s thoughts and prayers are with Bell’s family and young people in Nashville who looked up to him.

Police are asking anyone with information about the dark sedan, its occupants, or any dashcam footage from the time of the shooting to call Crime Stoppers at 615-742-7463. Callers can remain anonymous and may qualify for a cash reward.