Country Artist Todd Snider’s Utah Arrest Follows Alleged Hotel Assault

Country singer-songwriter Todd Snider has canceled his nationwide tour following a shocking weekend incident that left him hospitalized and, later, under arrest. The 59-year-old Nashville artist, known for his raw storytelling and outlaw spirit, was allegedly violently assaulted outside his Salt Lake City hotel on Sunday night, just hours before he was set to take the stage for the second stop of his "High, Lonesome and Then Some" tour. Known for songs like “Beer Run (B Double E Double Are You In?),” “Alright Guy,” and “Statistician’s Blues,” Todd Snider has long embodied country music’s rebel-poet archetype. His blend of humor, heartache, and grit has earned him a loyal fan base over three decades. But this latest episode has fans both worried and bewildered, as details continue to emerge about what led to the chaotic sequence of events.

Salt Lake City police confirmed with NBC on Tuesday that they’re investigating “an alleged assault of a 59-year-old male at the Commonwealth Room” on Saturday night, the same venue where Snider was scheduled to perform. Authorities said the musician was treated at Holy Cross Hospital the following day before being discharged, reportedly against his will. According to police, Snider initially left but later returned to the facility to “air grievances” about his treatment.

“He returned to the hospital and made threats that he was going to assault members of the staff,” Salt Lake City Police Detective Michael Ruff told NBC News. “By this point, he had been treated and released.”

The story took a dramatic turn just hours later when Snider himself was reportedly arrested at Holy Cross Hospital.

According to Fox13, Snider became “disruptive and aggressive” toward hospital staff after being discharged earlier than he believed was appropriate. Police reports claim the musician shouted and cursed at employees, and after being asked to leave, allegedly threatened one worker, saying he was going to “kick your a-s.”

Police arrested Snider on suspicion of disorderly conduct, trespassing, and making a violent threat. The investigation into the alleged assault outside his hotel remains ongoing.

Snider had been scheduled to perform on Monday in Phoenix, Tuesday in Los Angeles, and Wednesday in San Francisco. All dates have since been canceled as the artist recovers and addresses his legal situation.

Fans who purchased tickets through his official website and tour partners have been advised to contact the original point of sale for refund information.

In a statement released Monday, Snider’s team confirmed the cancellation, writing:

“Ahead of Todd Snider’s show in Salt Lake City, Todd sustained severe injuries as the victim of a violent assault. Todd will be unable to perform for an undetermined amount of time … We appreciate your understanding as Todd receives needed medical treatment.”

After news of Snider’s alleged assault and subsequent arrest broke, fans and fellow musicians rushed to his Instagram comments to share their love and concern. “What the hell! Who would wanna attack Todd??” one shocked fan wrote, while another added, “Whaaat??? Heal well, Todd!!”

Fellow artists echoed the sentiment, with Oh Boy Records commenting, “We love you Todd,” and Tony Kamel adding, “Love you Todd.” Musician Ian Moore shared, “Man. Big love to you, Todd. That is messed up. Ya know you got the world on your side. Sorry for whatever darkness you encountered.”

Others credited Snider’s music for helping them through tough times. One longtime fan wrote, “Todd is incredible, his livestreams got me through COVID! Never gotten to see him live but I’m such a giant fan. This is absolutely heartbreaking. Please get well, this world is so dang lucky to have your light in it!”

As of now, no further comment has been issued by Snider’s team or local authorities.