Autopsy: Fight A Factor In Kerrigan Father’s Death

BOSTON, Mass. --

A Massachusetts medical examiner has found that figure skater Nancy Kerrigan’s father died of a heart rhythm problem after suffering a neck injury so severe it damaged his voice box.

His death has been ruled a homicide. The findings revealed Tuesday could lead to new charges against Kerrigan’s brother, Mark.

Daniel Kerrigan died Jan. 24 after what authorities said was a struggle with his 45-year-old son. Mark Kerrigan told police he put his hands around his 70-year-old father’s neck.

Family members had said Daniel Kerrigan had a heart attack and his death was unrelated to the argument.

The autopsy report obtained by The Associated Press shows the elder Kerrigan also had underlying medical conditions.

The younger Kerrigan has pleaded not guilty to assault and is undergoing a psychiatric evaluation.