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Mathieu got death threats after remarks on Will Smith’s accused killer

Tyrann Mathieu has received death threats since speaking out against Will Smith’s killer.
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Arizona Cardinals cornerback and former LSU star Tyrann Mathieu fears that he will not be able to return to his hometown of New Orleans to pay his respects to former Saints defensive end Will Smith after making strong comments against Smith’s killer, which have resulted in death threats, according to the New York Daily News.

“I don’t think I can go back to New Orleans. I don’t think that’s possible,” Mathieu said. “Why? Because I called a spade a spade.”

Smith, 34, was shot Saturday night after a traffic accident and pronounced dead at the scene. His wife, Racquel, was hospitalized with two bullet wounds in her leg. The alleged shooter, 28-year-old Cardell Hayes, was arrested on second-degree murder charges and held on $1 million bond.

Cardell Hayes, a former New Orleans high school star, has been charged with second-degree murder in Smith’s death.​

• KING: Saints mourn loss of Smith

Mathieu went on to call Hayes a coward and killer on Twitter. In an appearance on The Rich Eisen Show, Mathieu said his comments about the accused have led to threats by Hayes’s family members.

[tweet :https://twitter.com/richeisen/status/719644176271314944]

Mathieu continues to share awareness about gun control and stopping violence in New Orleans.