Cardell Hayes, in a high-profile case, was convicted of manslaughter in the death of former Ohio State and New Orleans Saints star Will Smith. This verdict came nearly eight years after a fatal traffic crash that led to the confrontation. The incident unfolded in April 2016, when a dispute following a minor car accident escalated, resulting in Smith’s death and the injury of his wife, Racquel Smith.
Who is Cardell Hayes?
Cardell Hayes, a 36-year-old former semi-pro football player and tow truck business owner, has a complex history entwined with this case. Initially convicted in December 2016 for both manslaughter and attempted manslaughter, his conviction was later overturned due to a legal technicality related to nonunanimous jury verdicts. Hayes served over four years of a 25-year sentence before being released on bond. The retrial faced delays, partially due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Hayes insisted on acting in self-defense during the fatal encounter, a point contested by the prosecution. The defense highlighted Hayes’ claim that Smith was the aggressor and was reaching for a gun. However, no evidence supported Smith brandishing or firing a weapon.
Impact on the Community
The trial and its outcome have had a significant impact on the community, especially in New Orleans, where Will Smith was a beloved figure. Smith’s role in lifting the spirits of the city post-Hurricane Katrina and his contribution to the Saints’ Super Bowl victory made him a local hero. The case garnered widespread media attention and sparked discussions on gun violence, self-defense laws, and the criminal justice system.
Legal Proceedings and Outcome
The legal journey in this case has been complex, with the initial conviction, the overturning due to the Supreme Court ruling, and the subsequent retrial. Hayes now faces up to 40 years in prison following his conviction in the retrial. The case underscores the intricacies of the legal system and the challenges in cases involving self-defense claims.
Cardell Hayes’ story is one that intersects with issues of self-defense, legal challenges, and the reverberating impact of a high-profile criminal case on a community and its prominent figures. As Hayes prepares for his sentencing, the case leaves a lasting imprint on the legal and sports communities alike.
