No Charges Will Be Filed Against Tony Stewart, DA Says Ward Was On Marijuana

No charges will be filed against NASCAR driver Tony Stewart in the death of Kevin Ward Jr. of Port Leyden.

A grand jury finished hearing the case earlier today where they determined that Ward's death was an accident.

The Associated Press is reporting that District Attorney Michael Tantillo also said Ward was under the influence of marijuana that night "enough to impair judgement."

The 20 year old Ward climbed out of his car seemingly to confront Stewart after being spun out when he was hit by Stewart's car at a dirt track race in Canandaigua on August 9.

Following the announcement, Stewart released a statement through his Facebook page:

“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.”