Ex-Saint Will Smith shot to death in NOLA

Former New Orleans Saints defensive end Will Smith has been identified as the man killed in a Lower Garden District shooting Saturday (April 9), according to two law enforcement sources and a Saints source with direct knowledge of the incident.
The double shooting took place around 11:29 p.m., near the intersection of Sophie Wright and Felicity streets. The man was fatally shot and the female victim was shot in the leg, sources said. Smith was 34.

Inital reports say Smith was traveling on Sophie Wright Place on Saturday evening when he was rear-ended by a Hummer H2. The collision caused Smith’s Mercedes to strike an Impala in front of him. The male driver of the Hummer got out of the car and exchanged words with Smith. That’s when NOLA Police say the driver of the Hummer pulled out a handgun and shot Smith multiple times. The driver also shot Smith’s wife twice in the leg. Smith was pronounced dead on the scene. His wife was taken to the hospital and is being treated for her injuries. The driver was taken into custody by police.
Early on Saturday, Smith appeared to be enjoying the French Quarter Festival.

UPDATE 10:21 AM: ​The New Orleans Police Department has announced they’re charging Cardell Hayes with second-degree murder in the killing of former Saints player Will Smith. Hayes is in custody, bond has not been set and the NOPD officials say “the investigation is ongoing.”

Photo courtesy: NFL.com