Fan Favorite: The Death of NFL Star Will Smith
Summary
This episode recounts the fatal 2016 road rage shooting of former New Orleans Saints player Will Smith by Cardell Hayes. Host Jillian details the trial, contrasting prosecutors' claims of intentional murder with the defense's self-defense argument that Smith reached for a gun. Key testimonies from Smith’s widow Raquel, friends, and witnesses describe the escalating confrontation and the chaotic aftermath.
Topics discussed
Intro, Carvana ad, and show housekeeping
Background on Will Smith and the night of the incident
The car crash, confrontation, and shooting
Immediate aftermath and police investigation details
Prosecution's opening statement and theory of murder
Defense's opening statement and self-defense claim
Testimony from Deuce McAllister and crime scene evidence
Testimony from Raquel Smith and Rebecca Hernandez
Testimony from Richard Hernandez, Pierre, and Stephen
Testimony from Kevin O'Neill and bystander witnesses
Expert testimony on ballistics, video, and autopsy
Cardell Hayes testifies on the night of the shooting
Closing arguments from prosecution and defense
Verdict, sentencing, and post-trial motions
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