Man Acquitted In 18-Month-Old Child's Pro Wrestling-Related Death

The Associated Press is reporting that 21-year-old Brandon Hoffman has been acquitted in the death of 18-month-old Bryson Shoemaker by an all-female Lycoming County, Pennsylvania jury.

In May 2015, Hoffman performed The Undertaker's 'Last Ride' powerbomb on Shoemaker, who was the child of Hoffman's girlfriend. Instead of landing safely on a bed, Hoffman slammed Shoemaker to the floor, causing fatal head injuries.

The jury deliberated for less than two hours before finding Hoffman to be not criminally responsible for Shoemaker's passing. Hoffman was acquitted of aggravated assault and involuntary manslaughter, among other related counts.

Although Shoemaker's mother was brought in as a witness for the prosecution, she admitted that Hoffman loved her son and was always careful with him. Assistant District Attorney Martin Wade pointed out that intent is not always a prerequisite for a guilty verdict.

"He didn't mean it to happen ? fine," Wade said. "You can be found guilty of the crime even if you didn't mean it to happen."

The Hoffman case concludes as another case involving professional wrestling moves begins – three men are presently on trial for the death of Delyth Andrews, a 4'11" 54-year-old woman, who allegedly suffered several hours of professional wrestling inspired abuse.

Source: The Associated Press