Photo Credit: Chris Graythen/Getty Images
It is with great sadness that I write this article because this should have never happened. Former Saints defensive end Will Smith and his wife Raquel were driving in their car when another car rear-ended them. The crash itself caused very little damage, however, the driver of the other car was none too pleased about the accident. Smith and the other driver exchanged words after the minor accident. Apparently the verbal exchange became heated and the other driver pulled out a handgun and began shooting at Smith and his wife who were both still in the car. Sadly, Smith was pronounced dead at the scene at just 34 years old. His wife, who was shot twice in the leg, was taken to a local hospital.
The team released a statement on behalf of the Smith family:
Statement on behalf of the Smith Family pic.twitter.com/UdSlTVjQJq
— New Orleans Saints (@Saints) April 10, 2016
Just hours before the crash, he was out enjoying the French Quarter with his wife. Unfortunately, Smith himself knew too well about the violent crimes going on in New Orleans. Four years ago, he sent this tweet indicating just how bad things were then.
Wow, 20 murders in 26 days? New Orleans.. Please Stop the Violence!
— Will Smith (@iWillSmith) January 26, 2012
His former teammate Pierre Thomas arrived at the scene of the accident, only to see his friend dead over something that could have easily been resolved. The shooter, identified as Cardell Hayes, was arrested was immediately taken into police custody after being charged with second degree murder; that did not help anyone find peace in this tragic situation. Many Saints players and other NFL players took to Twitter to share their thoughts after hearing the news.
Heavy Hearts w the senseless passing of our Team Capt. Will Smith. Pray for his wife's recovery and their children. pic.twitter.com/VomR0Sut6M
— Sean Payton (@SeanPayton) April 10, 2016
Our thoughts, hearts and prayers go out to our friends with the @Saints organization today. #RIPWillSmith
— Atlanta Falcons (@AtlantaFalcons) April 10, 2016
Our thoughts, hearts and prayers go out to our friends with the @Saints organization today. #RIPWillSmith
— Atlanta Falcons (@AtlantaFalcons) April 10, 2016
Hurt right now. Lord please be with Will Smith's family.
— Darren Sproles (@DarrenSproles) April 10, 2016
Hearing the news of Will Smith is heart breaking. Lord please be with this family during this difficult time.
— Coach C.J. Spiller (@CJSPILLER) April 10, 2016
Words can't express how much I will miss my teammate and friend Will Smith! With a heavy heart I'm praying hard for his wife and family…
— Malcolm Jenkins (@MalcolmJenkins) April 10, 2016
