The tragic murder of Will Smith, former NFL star who was slain by a man named Careall Hayes on April 9, 2016 in New Orleans.  The death was a result of what appears to be road rage. His wife was also shot twice in her legs, while Will Smith was shot eight times.  Cardell is alleged to have remained at the scene and turned in the gun he used in the murder.  No matter the reasons for this fatal encounter, some good has come from tragedy.  His wife, Racquel Smith, accepted his MBA degree from University of Miami.

ESPN REPORTS:

It was one of the first public appearances for Racquel Smith, who was also shot in each of her legs on the night of April 9 after a traffic incident that turned into a fatal confrontation.

Thursday’s was one of the first public appearances for Racquel Smith, who was shot in each of her legs April 9 after a traffic incident that turned into a fatal confrontation for her husband, former Saints defensive end Will Smith.

Will Smith, 34, was also considering a coaching internship with the Saints this summer as he continued to plan for his life beyond football. Smith’s playing career ended in 2014 after he spent his first 10 seasons in New Orleans.

Among other developments surrounding that investigation, police released a crash report Wednesday that identified some of the other people traveling with Smith and his wife on the night of the shooting.

According to the New Orleans Advocate, an attorney for Richard and Rebecca Dooley Hernandez confirmed that they were the passengers in Smith’s vehicle at the time of the accident. And an attorney for Rebecca Hernandez’s brother, Jonathan Whipple, confirmed that he was driving the car in front of them.

Smith’s vehicle was struck from behind by Hayes’ vehicle, which cause a three-car pile-up. An argument then ensued, which resulted in Smith being shot eight times — seven in the back — and Racquel twice in the legs.  Will Smith was nearing MBA degree at University of Miami when slain 

The senseless murder of Will Smith is an example of why Guns should never get into the hands of the wrong person. Cardell Hayes had no business having a gun. He turned into a homicidal maniac after his vehicle was hit.  He should never be allowed to see daylight again.  The pain he caused Racquel and their family, both physically and emotionally is unimaginable.  It is a hard story to comprehend and a sad situation entirely.

May Will’s soul rest in eternal peace. #RIPWillSmith