Olympic trainer's fatal shooting: justice delayed, but not forgotten
The chilling case of Lauren Kanarek, an equestrian and former student of Olympic trainer Michael Barisone, continues to unfold, revealing a complex web of accusations, a brutal act of violence, and a legal battle that ultimately delivered a shocking verdict.
A deadly dispute on a farm
Netflix’s ‘Untold: The Shooting at Hawthorne Hill’ lays bare the escalating conflict between Kanarek, her fiancé Robert Goodwin, and Barisone, whose training center became the scene of a horrific crime. What began as a promising riding career swiftly devolved into a bitter feud, punctuated by Barisone’s increasingly alarming pronouncements about “war” and a disregard for Kanarek’s presence on his property.
On August 7, 2019, the tension exploded. Kanarek was shot twice at point-blank range, a shocking act caught on 911 audio where she desperately pleaded for help, identifying her assailant: Barisone. Goodwin’s voice, a chilling counterpoint, can be heard in the background. The attack left her fighting for her life, requiring extensive surgery and a medically induced coma.
The verdict: insanity defense
The subsequent trial in 2022 presented a stark contrast of narratives. The prosecution painted Barisone as a volatile trainer consumed by vengeance, citing Kanarek’s own online posts detailing a pattern of harassment. However, Barisone’s defense argued he was driven to a “moment of madness” by Kanarek’s relentless behaviour, presenting evidence of alleged physical assaults and quoting a disturbing social media message from her.
A shadow of justice
The jury, however, sided with the defense, delivering a verdict of not guilty by reason of insanity for one count of attempted murder and one count of weapons possession. Barisone was subsequently released from prison after serving two and a half years, now subject to strict court supervision and a ban from all contact with Kanarek. Despite the legal outcome, Lauren Kanarek continues to share her harrowing experience, a testament to her resilience and a pursuit of closure.
Despite the verdict, Kanarek remains legally protected, a stark reminder of the lasting trauma inflicted upon her. Barisone's restricted movements underscore the ongoing need for vigilance and a commitment to ensuring his safety – and hers – moving forward.”