More details have emerged in the shooting death of former Saints player Will Smith in New Orleans last weekend. Cardell Hayes was arrested and charged with second-degree murder but his attorney John Fuller told reporters that his client was not the aggressor, suggesting that Smith was intoxicated and there might have been and second weapon in the incident.
In the days following the murder, many rumors swirled as to what might have motivated the attack. Today, footage has surfaced showing Smith’s Mercedes G63 SUV and Hayes’ Hummer H2 which might add some credence to the road rage theory. The video shows Hayes’ H2 riding in front of Smith’s vehicle and stopping, causing Smith to rear end Hayes. As the H2 attempts to pull over, the the Mercedes SUV goes on the other side of the lane and drives off. This is when Hayes is seen chasing after Smith.
John Fuller:
Prior to the actions that led to Mr. Smith’s death, my client was involved in a hit and run. Someone hit him. The person failed to pull over. My client trailed behind this person in an effort to get their license plate number. My client also called 911.
The video itself does not absolve Hayes of any wrongdoing, as there is still no evidence presented that would suggest that the defendant was in fear of his life or acted in self-defense, as Fuller has claimed. Moreover, if Fuller is unable to prove his claims, the actions shown in the video would elevate the second-degree murder charge to first degree due to the element of premeditation.