Closing arguments are currently taking place in the manslaughter retrial of Cardell Hayes, who shot and killed former New Orleans Saints star, Will Smith, following a traffic crash almost eight years ago. Hayes had previously been convicted in December of 2016 for manslaughter in Smith's death and attempted manslaughter for shooting Smith's wife, Racquel. However, due to a nonunanimous jury vote of 10-2, Hayes' conviction was overturned after the Supreme Court outlawed such verdicts.

Prosecutors rested their case against Hayes on Friday, while the defense chose not to call any witnesses. This decision has set the stage for closing arguments and subsequent jury deliberations.

In his closing arguments, Assistant District Attorney Matt Derbes admitted that Smith had been under the influence of alcohol at the time of the incident. He also acknowledged the presence of a gun in Smith's car. However, Derbes stressed that there was no testimony or evidence indicating that Smith had retrieved the weapon. He emphasized that "Nobody sees Will Smith with a gun in his hand."

Cardell Hayes, 36, maintained his stance that he acted in self-defense during the confrontation in April 2016. Hayes claimed that he heard a "pop" before firing at Smith, hitting him once in the side and seven times in the back. He argued that he believed Smith, who was drunk and acting belligerently, had retrieved a gun from his SUV. Hayes asserted that he did not shoot at Smith's wife, who was shot in the legs.

Although evidence showed that Smith was intoxicated during the incident, there was no witness or forensic evidence supporting Hayes' claim that Smith had wielded or fired a weapon.

Will Smith, a beloved figure in New Orleans, was a defensive leader for the Saints and played a significant role in bringing hope and success to the city after Hurricane Katrina in 2005. Hayes, who owned a tow truck business, had played semi-pro football and has one son.

As the retrial nears its conclusion, the jury will soon begin their deliberations to determine the fate of Cardell Hayes.