Saints executive calls for support to end violent killings in New Orleans

Saints senior vice president of communications Greg Bensel has called for the city of New Orleans to rally together in order to put an end to violent killings in the city, following the shocking death of former defensive end Will Smith.

Bensel implored the New Orleans community to use the death of Smith - who played for the Saints from 2004-13 - to elicit change, saying the club will continue to work to end "senseless killings" in the city:

The murder rate in New Orleans has dropped steadily since its peak in 2006, however it remains nearly four times that of cities of similar size, according to Cheryl Corley of NPR.

The Saints released a statement Sunday regarding Smith's death:

Our thoughts and prayers are with Will and his wife Racquel, but more importantly with their children, William, Wynter and Lisa who are suffering and just starting to realize and deal with an unimaginable loss. We are devastated and saddened by Will's tragic and preventable death due to a senseless act that will leave a lasting scar on our community forever. Will was more than an exceptional football player he was a father, a husband, a son, a brother and teammate to so many and an inspiration to countless more. He will be greatly missed by all those he touched and impacted both on and off the football field and his legacy will continue to shine. The Saints family is hurting and devastated as it has lost a member too young and too soon.

Smith was fatally shot following a traffic accident late Saturday night. His Mercedes was rear-ended by a Hummer, with the driver of the Hummer producing a handgun and shooting Smith multiple times after the two exchanged words.

The 34-year-old's wife, Racquel Smith, was also in the vehicle and was shot in the leg.

Smith is survived by Racquel and their three children: William, Wynter, and Lisa.