The family of former New Orleans Saints defensive end Will Smith thanked the entire Saints organization and the fans for their support via an ad on Wednesday.
The family took out a full-page ad, which appeared in both the New Orleans Times-Picayune and the New Orleans Advocate. As we previously reported, Smith was shot and killed on April 9, allegedly by Cardelle Hayes, after he was possibly involved in a hit-and-run with Hayes. Smith’s wife, Racquel, was shot in the leg, but did not suffer any life-threatening injuries. Hayes was charged with second-degree murder and his bond was set at $1 million.
“This past week has been unimaginable for our family but we have gotten through using our memories of Will, our love for each other, and help from the people of New Orleans,” the ad said, according to the Saints website. “The non-stop outpouring of support, prayers, and well-wishes from our neighbors and friends, and Saints fans from across Louisiana, the United States and the world has been overflowing. When we remember Will, we will smile thinking of all the lives he has positively impacted both not only here at home, but across the globe.”
The ad goes on to thank the entire Saints organization, the fans and everyone else who has shown support and sent flowers, cards and their love.
Smith was drafted by the Saints in 2004 and played for them his entire career. He won a Super Bowl with the team in 2009 and has been voted into the Saints Hall of Fame.
The Louisiana State Police have declined to take over the investigation of the case. Hayes’ lawyer says that Smith was the aggressor, not Hayes.