A high-stakes retrial is about to commence for the man charged with the fatal shooting of retired New Orleans Saints star Will Smith almost eight years ago. Cardell Hayes, 36, claims that he acted in self-defense during an intense confrontation following a car crash in April 2016. The incident claimed Smith’s life and left his wife, Racquel Smith, injured.
Hayes had originally been convicted of manslaughter and attempted manslaughter, with a jury vote of 10-2. However, the U.S. Supreme Court ruled that such convictions must be unanimous. Subsequently, his conviction was overturned, and he was released on bond after serving over four years of a 25-year sentence.
During his 2016 trial, Hayes maintained that he fired at Smith because he believed Smith, who appeared drunk and aggressive, had retrieved a gun from his SUV. Hayes testified that he heard a “pop” before opening fire, and he denied shooting at Smith’s wife, who sustained leg injuries. However, there was no supporting witness or forensic evidence to corroborate Hayes’ claim that Smith had been armed or fired a weapon.
Hayes’ retrial has faced multiple delays due to various factors, including the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.
Will Smith, a beloved figure in New Orleans and a defensive leader for the Saints, played a crucial role in uplifting the spirits of the city following the devastation caused by Hurricane Katrina in 2005. His contributions helped guide the team to a winning season in 2006 and a Super Bowl victory in 2010.
Cardell Hayes, the owner of a tow truck business and a former semi-pro football player, is eager to prove his innocence. As the trial unfolds, the truth behind that fateful night will be closely examined, with the hopes of bringing closure to the victims’ families and the community as a whole.
Source: F5 Magazine