NEW ORLEANS—Former New Orleans Saints player Will Smith was shot and killed Saturday in what appeared to be a road rage incident that has shocked fans of the much-loved athlete.
Coroner Jeffrey C. Rouse said in an emailed statement that Smith died of “multiple gunshot wounds” after a traffic accident in the city’s Lower Garden District. The former defensive end was 34 years old.
Cardell Hayes, 28, was arrested on a charge of second-degree murder in Smith’s death, New Orleans Police Department spokesman Tyler Gamble said Sunday. Police said Hayes was the driver of a Humvee H2 that rear-ended Smith’s Mercedes G63 about 11:30 p.m. Saturday. A passenger in Hayes’ vehicle was questioned and released, he said.
Gamble said the investigation was continuing. Online court records show Hayes pleaded guilty in 2014 to one count each of possessing an illegal weapon and possessing drug paraphernalia.
Saints’ owner Tom Benson and family released a statement mourning the loss of a player who had been their No. 1 draft pick in 2004.
“The Saints family is hurting and devastated as it has lost a member too young and too soon,” the statement said.
The Smith family released a statement through a public relations firm.
“On behalf of the Smith family, we are thankful for the outpouring of support and prayers. We ask that you continue to respect the family’s privacy as they grieve the loss of a devoted husband, father and friend,” the statement read.
