Mexican Wrestler Charged with Manslaughter After Referee's Death During Stunt
The incident occurred when a pre-planned wrestling move resulted in the referee's death, leading to the wrestler's arrest.
A professional wrestler, known as Hijo De Fishman, has been charged with manslaughter in Mineral de la Reforma, Hidalgo, Mexico, following the death of referee Gerardo German Pineda, also known as El Buho. Pineda, 75, died on Wednesday night during an event called 'Deslealtades'.
According to reports, Hijo De Fishman performed a 'piledriver' move on Pineda as part of a pre-planned skit after his match. The move, however, went awry, leaving Pineda motionless on the floor.
For several minutes, Pineda remained on the floor unattended as attendees initially believed he was feigning injury as part of the planned performance. Paramedics were eventually called, and Pineda was pronounced dead at the scene. Following this, Hijo De Fishman was arrested on suspicion of manslaughter or negligent homicide.
El Patron Espectaculos, the promotion organizing the event, issued a statement indicating they are providing legal assistance to Hijo De Fishman. The company stated they are cooperating with the authorities and have arranged for legal accompaniment for the wrestler to ensure the process is conducted lawfully.
The promotion also confirmed that their lawyer and legal representative are in contact with Pineda's family and their representatives to manage the case respectfully. El Patron Espectaculos has refrained from releasing further information to avoid prejudicing the ongoing investigation and has requested that fans, media, and the wrestling community exercise prudence and avoid spreading unconfirmed information.
The company expressed deep regret over the loss of life and conveyed solidarity with Pineda's family, friends, and colleagues in the wrestling industry.