Facing a grand jury yesterday, NASCAR veteran Tony Stewart was found innocent of charges that he had deliberately, and fatally run down co-competitor Kevin Ward Jr. on a New York race track last month.
According to Orange County District Attorney Michael Tantillo, Ward, who was 20 at the time of his death, was under the influence of prohibited substances, having smoked enough marijuana to impair his judgment. “I am sure from their deliberations and discussions that the fact that Kevin Ward was observed running basically two-thirds of the track, down a hot track in the middle of other cars still racing played a big, big factor in their decision,” he said.
After reviewing footage of the incident, Tantillo asked the grand jury to consider charging Stewart, 43, with second-degree manslaughter and criminally negligent homicide. The jury, however, decided that evidence was lacking to prove Stewart had deliberately planned to run Ward down at the August 9 sprint car race at New York’s Canandaigua Motorsports Park.
“After listening to and questioning all of the witnesses, and reviewing all of the evidence, the grand jury has determined that there is no basis to charge Tony Stewart with any crimes,” read Tantillo’s statement on the case. He added that Stewart was not tested for alcohol or drugs following the incident, as a “certified drug recognition expert” found no signs of impairment when he was interviewed on the night of the collision.
“This has been the toughest and most emotional experience of my life, and it will stay with me forever,” said Stewart, who gave this prepared statement following yesterday’s hearing. “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.”