New Orleans Saints: Suspect Charged After Former Player Will Smith Shot Dead, Police Say

Will Smith, formerly of the New Orleans Saints, made one Pro Bowl appearance during his nine years in the league. (Streeter Lecka/Getty Images)

By Dave Martin

Dave Martin

Dave Martin is a New-York based writer as well as editor. He is the sports editor for the Epoch Times and is a consultant to private writers.

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April 10, 2016Updated: April 10, 2016

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Former New Orleans Saints defensive end Will Smith was shot and killed late Saturday night following a traffic accident in New Orleans.

Cardell Hayes was charged with second-degree murder Sunday, New Orleans police say. Smith, who played nine seasons in the NFL, was shot after the driver of a vehicle hit Smith’s SUV, and the driver and Smith exchanged words, police say.

Cardell Hayes, 28, arrested on second-degree murder charges after Will Smith is shot dead https://t.co/eXb8KVdx2U pic.twitter.com/SkKUE9qJvI

— KTLA (@KTLA) April 10, 2016

Former pro bowler Smith was just 34.

Smith was the Saints’ first-round pick in 2004 out of Ohio State. The 6-foot-3, 280-pounder 67.5 sacks from 2004 through 2012, while starting 120 games. His best season came in 2009 when he led the team with 13.5 sacks as New Orleans won their only Super Bowl.

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Smith’s tragic death sent shockwaves through the league.

Mourning the loss of a great friend and teammate, Will Smith. Such a senseless tragedy. Please pray for Racquel and their children.

— Drew Brees (@drewbrees) April 10, 2016

RIP Will Smith may the lord have mercy on your soul at the gates of heaven you were a great man… https://t.co/nuuDvniqDc

— Reggie Bush (@ReggieBush) April 10, 2016

Prayers and condolence sent out to Will Smith #RIP and his beautiful family! So sad man. Good dude he was man!

— LeBron James (@KingJames) April 10, 2016