Nancy Kerrigan's father's death was ruled a homicide. The Kerrigan family is extremely unhappy with the coroner's ruling. Nancy's father had heart condition and he died after an argument with Nancy's brother, who admitted he put his hands on his father's neck during the argument. The state medical examiner said today that Daniel Kerrigan suffered a heart attack inside his home
"The Medical Examiner determined that the cause of death was cardiac dysrhythmia following a physical altercation with neck compression causing injury to the neck in the form of a cartilage fracture to the larynx area, in a person with hypertensive and atherosclerotic cardiovascular heart disease," Leone said in the statement.
"The corresponding manner of death has been ruled a homicide. As a result of these conclusions of the Medical Examiner, the investigation into Daniel Kerrigan's death, and whether any charges in connection with his death are appropriate, remains ongoing."
A few hours after Leone made his announcement, the Kerrigan family issued a statement through their Boston attorney, Tracy Miner.
"The Kerrigan family is extremely disappointed that the medical examiner would release a cause of death without having all of the relevant facts. We believe this finding to be premature and inaccurate," the family said in the statement.
The family said they do not believe Mark Kerrigan should face criminal charges for the death of his father.
"The Kerrigan family does not blame anyone for the unfortunate death of Dan Kerrigan, who had a pre-existing heart condition."
Mark reportedly is an Army vet with post traumatic stress disorder who was under the care of a psychiatrist at the time of the incident. Mark was arrested after the argument. He has been sent to a psychiatric hospital for evaluation. Sources at the district attorney's office say he is unlikely to be charged with murder, as he had to intent to kill his father. Most likely, he will be charged with manslaughter or involuntary manslaughter.
