ONTARIO COUNTY, N.Y. — Tony Stewart has been cleared of all charges in the death of Kevin Ward Jr, the Ontario County District Attorney announced Wednesday.
The Ontario County grand jury completed its investigation and found no basis to charge Stewart in connection to the accident.
The Ontario County District Attorney announced its decision at a 3 p.m. press conference.
The DA said they heard from more than two dozen witnesses over the last day.
Stewart posted a statement on his Facebook page saying:
"This has been the toughest and most emotional experience of my life, and it will stay with me forever. I'm very grateful for all the support I've received and continue to receive.
"I respect everything the District Attorney and Sheriff's Office did to thoroughly investigate this tragic accident. While the process was long and emotionally difficult, it allowed for all the facts of the accident to be identified and known.
"While much of the attention has been on me, it's important to remember a young man lost his life. Kevin Ward Jr.'s family and friends will always be in my thoughts and prayers."
The DA announced they found marijuana in Ward's system when he was killed.
"There are no winners in tragedy. Our thoughts and prayers remain with the Kevin Ward Jr. family and Tony Stewart as they all cope with this tragic incident at Canandaigua Motorsports Park," said NASCAR Chief Communications Officer Brett Jewkes. "This has been a difficult time for everyone involved and we have respected the local authorities responsible for reviewing this case."
RAW: District attorney announces no charges against Stewart
Stewart struck and killed Ward at the Canandaigua Motor Speedway on Aug. 9, 2014.
Ward had climbed from his car to confront Stewart when he was struck. The 20-year-old died of blunt-force trauma.
In a press conference on Aug. 29, Stewart said Ward's death would "affect my life forever.
RAW: Tony Stewart says Ward's death will affect him forever
Channel 9 reporter Jenna Deery watched the decision with Charlotte attorney Brad Smith. She will have Smith's reaction to the decision starting at 5 p.m. on Eyewitness News.
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