Michael Barisone Shooting: Full Overview of the Hawthorne Hill Case
The Michael Barisone shooting refers to a high-profile 2019 incident involving former U.S. Olympic dressage coach Michael Barisone and his student, Lauren Kanarek, at his Hawthorne Hill farm in New Jersey.
What Happened
In August 2019, Barisone shot Kanarek twice during a confrontation at his property. The incident followed a prolonged dispute between the coach and his student, which included allegations of harassment, social media conflicts, and escalating personal tensions. Kanarek survived the shooting after emergency surgery and intensive medical treatment.
Legal Case and Trial
Barisone was charged with attempted murder and weapons offenses. During his 2022 trial, his defense argued that he was suffering from a severe mental breakdown at the time of the shooting and did not understand his actions. He was ultimately found not guilty by reason of insanity.
Aftermath
Following the verdict, Barisone was committed to a psychiatric facility and later released in 2023 after treatment. He has since faced additional disciplinary actions within the equestrian world, including bans and ongoing legal disputes with governing bodies.
Current Status
Today, Barisone lives a quieter life while continuing legal and professional disputes related to the case. The incident has also been revisited in media coverage and documentaries exploring the conflict and its aftermath.