An Ontario County, New York, grand jury has begun hearing testimony to determine whether Tony Stewart will be charged over the death of sprintcar racer Kevin Ward Jr.
The 20-year-old Ward died on August 9 after being struck by Stewart’s car while confronting the three-time NASCAR champion on foot following an earlier racing incident.
Local news outlet, Democrat & Chronicle, has reported that Chuck Hebing, who had also been racing in the event, has already given testimony to the jury.
Authorities had confirmed last week that the District Attorney in charge of the investigation, Michael Tantillo, would submit his findings to a grand jury.
Confidentiality surrounding grand jury cases in New York State ensures that the timing of the hearing and the identity of witnesses have not been officially released.
After all testimony is given, the jury will either vote for an indictment, dismiss the case or request the prosecutor to submit a less serious charge.
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A prosecutor needs 12 of the 23 jurors to vote for an indictment in order for one to be issued.
Stewart said in a recent statement that he will continue to co-operate with proceedings, but did not indicate whether he will testify.
“I respect the time and effort spent by both the Ontario County District Attorney and the Sheriff’s Office in investigating this tragic accident,” he said.
“I look forward to this process being completed, and I will continue to provide my full cooperation.”
Stewart missed three races in the immediate aftermath of the incident before returning to action at Atlanta late last month.
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