ATF Adds $5,000 Reward in Fatal Interstate Shooting of Fisk Student Andre Bell in Nashville

Reward total reaches $10,000 as investigators seek identification of shooter and vehicle

Federal authorities have added a $5,000 reward for information leading to an arrest and indictment in the fatal shooting of Fisk University student Andre Bell, increasing the total reward to up to $10,000 when combined with an existing offer of up to $5,000. The case remains under investigation, and police say the motive has not been determined.

Bell, 20, was shot on Sunday, January 11, 2026, while driving north on Interstate 65 at the Interstate 40 east junction. He was returning to Fisk’s campus with two fellow students after attending a gymnastics event at the fairgrounds. Investigators say a dark-colored sedan pulled alongside Bell’s white Nissan Sentra and gunfire erupted from the other vehicle.

Bell suffered a gunshot wound to the head. He was transported to Vanderbilt University Medical Center, where he died on Monday morning, January 12, 2026.

What investigators say happened on I-65

Detectives report that the two passengers in Bell’s vehicle noticed a dark sedan in the left lane beside them shortly before the shooting. The passengers told investigators they were distracted by their cellphones when they heard multiple gunshots and then realized Bell had been hit.

After the shooting, the Sentra slowed and spun in traffic before colliding with a red pickup truck. The dark sedan continued driving away from the area.

Vehicle clues and what police are asking the public to provide

Investigators say evidence at the scene suggests the suspect vehicle may have windshield damage, based on shattered glass recovered from the roadway. Detectives are seeking information that could help identify the dark sedan and the occupants inside it, as well as any video evidence from the area.

• Information identifying the dark-colored sedan and its occupants
• Dashcam footage from I-65 north near the I-40 interchange shortly after 8 p.m. on January 11, 2026
• Tips that could establish the route taken by the suspect vehicle after leaving the scene

How tips can be submitted

Police are directing anyone with information to contact Nashville Crime Stoppers at 615-742-7463. Callers can remain anonymous and will receive a code number for reward purposes.

The investigation remains active, with detectives continuing to pursue leads aimed at identifying the shooter and determining why the attack occurred.