Former Saints DE Will Smith shot dead in New Orleans
Get breaking news and SI’s biggest stories instantly. Download the new Sports Illustrated app (iOS or Android) and personalize your experience by following your favorite teams and SI writers.
Witnesses and law enforcement sources have identified a man shot dead in New Orleans on Saturday night as former Saints defensive end Will Smith, The Times-Picayunereports.
According to police, a man was killed and a woman was wounded in a New Orleans double shooting on Saturday night. The female victim, Smith’s wife Racquel, sustained gunshot wounds to the leg and was taken to the hospital.
In their report, authorities say that Smith was involved in a three-car collision, and was shot multiple times in an ensuing altercation. One of the drivers was taken into custody and questioned by police.
The alleged shooter, 28-year-old Cardell Hayes, waited for police to arrive after the shooting and was arrested on a charge of second-degree murder, reports the Associated Press. Police Superintendent Michael Harrison would not say whether Hayes claimed self-defense in the incident, citing the ongoing investigation.
Saints executive vice president/general manager Mickey Loomis offered condolences to Smith’s family Sunday.
Former teammates and players from around the NFL reacted with shock after hearing of Smith’s death.
Later on Sunday, the Saints announced that Smith had been inducted into the franchise hall of fame, an announcement that was planned for May.
Smith last played in 2012 with the Saints, recording 33 total tackles in 16 games with six sacks. A first-round pick in 2004 out of Ohio State, Smith spent his entire 10-year career in New Orleans. He was 34.
