Former New Orleans Saints defensive end Will Smith was shot and killed Saturday night in the city’s Lower Garden District after a traffic accident.
The 34-year-old Smith was shot multiple times, according to law enforcement officials, after his Mercedes was rear-ended by a Hummer H2 and he exchanged words with the 30-year-old driver of the other vehicle.
Smith’s wife, Racquel, 34, was struck twice by shots in the right leg, police said, and was taken to a hospital. Smith was pronounced dead at the scene.
The driver of the Hummer was taken into police custody for questioning. Police said the handgun that fired the shots was recovered.
Former Saints running back Pierre Thomas arrived after the incident after reportedly having been out during the evening with Smith and his wife. Former teammates and players expressed their grief on Twitter.
Drafted No. 18 overall in 2004 out of Ohio State, Smith spent nine seasons with the Saints and was named to the Pro Bowl in 2006. He ranks fourth in team history in career sacks with 67 1/2, including a career-best 13 in 2009 when the Saints went to the Super Bowl.
Smith’s last season with the Saints was in 2012.