12/11/2016 8:54 PM PST BY TMZ STAFF
Breaking News
Cardell Hayes was found GUILTY of manslaughter in the killing of former Saints star Will Smith by a jury in New Orleans … and could face up to 40 years in prison.
Smith was shot and killed by Hayes on April 9th after a road rage incident. His trial started Monday … and went through the weekend. The jury started deliberating earlier this afternoon … and just reached a verdict.
Hayes was found guilty of manslaughter … and attempted manslaughter.
Saints coach Sean Payton … as well as ex-Saint Deuce McAllister were present in court while the verdict was read.
The judge tentatively scheduled Hayes’ sentencing for February 17th.
Story developing …
