Prosecutor won't file charges in death of wrestler Owen Hart
KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) -- A prosecutor has decided not to file any criminal charges in the death of Owen Hart, a professional wrestler who plunged to his death during a stunt for a show.
Hart, also known as The Blue Blazer, died May 23 when he fell from a cable as he was being lowered into the ring at a World Wrestling Federation show.
Hart, 34, fell 78 feet when the quick release on his harness opened early.
Jackson County Prosecutor Robert Beaird said his review of Kansas City police investigation files showed there was no basis for a criminal charge of involuntary manslaughter against the rigging coordinator.
Hart's widow and children filed a wrongful death lawsuit in June against the WWF, the city and 11 others they believe are responsible for Hart's death.
Martha Hart said she was "outraged and repulsed" that the WWF continued the show after her husband's dead body was removed from the ring before 17,000 spectators.
The lawsuit contends that the device that the 230-pound Hart wore the night of the accident was grossly inadequate for the stunt.
