A verdict late Sunday night has brought some closure to the family of former NFL star Will Smith.
Cardell Hayes was convicted of multiple charges, including manslaughter and attempted manslaughter. He shot the former Saints player in April following a traffic dispute.
Hayes says he did it because Smith was allegedly drunk, violent and grabbed a gun. But those who knew him from his time playing football at Proctor High School in Utica say that's not the Smith they knew.
Smith's former high school coach, Jon Bryant, says he's relieved to see a guilty verdict. And now their challenge is carrying on Smith's legacy in his hometown.
"Make sure that the players that follow him, that step on the field at Proctor -- not just Proctor, but I think the area, because Will has done such a good job of bringing schools together to honor their top players each year," Bryant said. "Just don't let his story go away, the things that he did here, both on and off the field."
A statement released on behalf of Smith's widow, who was shot in both legs during the altercation, reads, "The main focus of Will Smith's family is to see Mr. Hayes justly sentenced for the murder he so callously committed. Will's dedication to his family, his love for his community and his desire to live life tot he fullest will continue to inspire Racquel, Will, Jr., Lisa, Wynter and everyone else who loved him."