The Spokesman-Review Newspaper
The Spokesman-Review Newspaper The Spokesman-Review
Spokane, Washington  Est. May 19, 1883
Current Temperature
30°F
Current Conditions
Clear sky
View complete weather report

Color Scheme

Subscribe now

Tony Stewart will not face charges in deadly crash

Stewart
Jenna Fryer And Associated Press
Stewart

CANANDAIGUA, N.Y. – After more than six weeks in limbo, NASCAR star Tony Stewart finally got the news he wanted.

A grand jury that heard testimony from more than two dozen witnesses, including accident reconstruction experts and drivers, and looked at photographs and video decided against bringing criminal charges against Stewart for the death of 20-year-old sprint car driver Kevin Ward Jr. during an Aug. 9 race.

A few hours after Ontario County District Attorney Michael Tantillo announced the grand jury’s decision in this upstate New York hamlet, the Ward family indicated in a statement read over the telephone by sister Kayla Herring that they will seek civil damages in the young driver’s death.

“Our son got out of his car during caution when the race was suspended. All the other vehicles were reducing speed and not accelerating except for Stewart, who intentionally tried to intimidate Kevin by accelerating and sliding his car toward him, causing the tragedy,” the family said Wednesday. “The focus should be on the actions of Mr. Stewart. This matter is not at rest and we will pursue all remedies in fairness to Kevin.”

The family might have a difficult task: Tantillo disclosed that Ward was under the influence of marijuana the night he died and said two videos were enhanced, frames were isolated and viewed at least three speeds and finally overlaid with grids and data. Both showed Stewart had done nothing wrong.

Tantillo added that toxicology evidence from Ward’s autopsy “indicates that at the time of operation he was under the influence of marijuana. The levels determined were enough to impair judgment.”

“This has been the toughest and most emotional experience of my life, and it will stay with me forever. I’m very grateful for all the support I’ve received and continue to receive,” Stewart said. “While much of the attention has been on me, it’s important to remember a young man lost his life. Kevin Ward Jr.’s family and friends will always be in my thoughts and prayers.”