Death of Nancy Kerrigan's father ruled homicide

70-year-old Daniel Kerrigandied January 24 after a fight with son Mark, according to police reports.

Based on the medical examiner's findings, Middlesex County District Attorney Gerard T Leone Jr said Kerrigan died of a heart rhythm disorder during the argument. The autopsy uncovered fractured cartilage in the area of Kerrigan's larynx. Cause of death: cardiac dysrhythmia after suffering the neck injury during the struggle with Mark.

The medical examiner also uncovered underlying hypertension and heart disease.

Mark Kerrigan faces one charge of assault and battery on an elder with serious bodily injury if prosecutors decide to pursue the case.

Nancy Kerrigan, seen here with her mother at Daniel's funeral, and her family expressed anger and dismay that the medical examiner made the finding public.

Through their lawyer, Tracy Miner, the family said, "The Kerrigan family is extremely disappointed that the medical examiner would release a cause of death without having all of the relevant facts. We believe this finding to be premature and inaccurate."

"The Kerrigan family does not blame anyone for the unfortunate death of Dan Kerrigan, who had a pre-existing heart condition."

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