The man accused of shooting and killing former Saints defensive end Will Smith on Saturday night in New Orleans has been booked on murder charges on Sunday.
New Orleans police announced that Cardell Hayes has been booked for second-degree murder after allegedly shooting both Smith and his wife after a traffic accident. There was reportedly an exchange of words after a Hummer driven by Hayes hit Smith’s car from behind and the argument eventually devolved into the fatal volley of shots.
“We are devastated and saddened by Will’s tragic and preventable death due to a senseless act that will leave a lasting scar on our community forever,” Saints owner Tom Benson said in a statement. “Will was more than an exceptional football player he was a father, a husband, a son, a brother and teammate to so many and an inspiration to countless more. He will be greatly missed by all those he touched and impacted both on and off the football field and his legacy will continue to shine. The Saints family is hurting and devastated as it has lost a member too young and too soon.”
Racquel Smith was hit in the leg twice and was taken to the hospital. The couple were parents to two sons and a daughter.