New Orleans, Louisiana – Cardell Hayes, the man responsible for the shooting death of former New Orleans Saints defensive lineman Will Smith in 2016, has received a 25-year prison sentence. The sentencing, which took place in New Orleans on Thursday, was the result of a retrial of the case that occurred more than seven years ago. Hayes, 36, was found guilty of manslaughter in a unanimous decision by a jury in January.
The initial conviction of Hayes was overturned due to the U.S. Supreme Court’s ruling against nonunanimous verdicts. Following his release on bond after serving over four years of his original sentence, Hayes was taken back into custody on January 27. He remained in jail until his recent sentencing.
The altercation that led to Will Smith’s tragic death involved a traffic incident where Hayes’ SUV collided with the rear of Smith’s vehicle. Smith was shot eight times, including seven shots to the back, resulting in his death. Hayes alleged that he acted in self-defense, while evidence presented showed that Smith was intoxicated during the confrontation.
Throughout his career, Smith played nine seasons with the New Orleans Saints, earning a Pro Bowl appearance in 2006 and contributing to the team’s Super Bowl victory in 2009. The shooting incident in 2016 not only claimed Smith’s life but also led to injuries to his wife, Racquel, who was hit in the leg by a stray bullet.
Despite the tragic outcome of the altercation, the legal process has reached a conclusion with Hayes’ 25-year prison sentence. The case serves as a somber reminder of the devastating consequences that can arise from conflicts escalating to violence. The sentencing brings a sense of closure to a painful chapter in the history of both the NFL and the city of New Orleans.