A wrestler has been arrested and charged with manslaughter after he allegedly performed a piledriver on a ref, fatally injuring him.
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Graphic video posted by TMZ shows luchador Hijo de Fishman hoisting veteran wrestler turned referee Gerardo German Pineda off the ground and seemingly slamming him headfirst into the canvas. Though Pineda appears to take the brunt of the hit on his upper back, he writhes in agony before going limp.
TMZ reports that later in the Oct. 7 match in Mineral de la Reforma, Hidalgo, Mexico, Fishman performed a piledriver on the 75-year-old Pineda. Though footage of the moment has yet to surface, the outlet reports that he "fell unconscious after the move."
Pineda was reportedly pronounced dead at the venue.
Steph Heredia, an eyewitness, told The Daily Star that the wrestler seemed to argue with the ref right before he allegedly performed the fateful move. She added that in the moment, many spectators thought it was just part of the show.
Pineda reportedly performed as a wrestler under the name "El Búho" for decades.
Per TMZ, authorities later arrested and charged Hijo de Fishman with culpable homicide, which the outlet explained was the rough equivalent of manslaughter in Mexico.
Statement Issued Following Alleged Piledriver Fatally Injuring Ref in the Ring
Meanwhile, wrestling promotion company El Patron Lucha Libre released a statement about the tragic incident.
"Our company is attentive to the developing situation. [We have] arranged accompaniment and legal assistance for Hijo de Fishman," the company wrote in part, per wrestling outlet Fightful.
"The lawyer and legal representative of the company maintains contact with the family of Mr. Gerardo Germán Pineda, "El Búho", and with his legal representatives, to handle the case in the best way and guarantee respect for all parties involved."
"The legal process is still ongoing. So, out of respect for the authorities and due process, this company will refrain from issuing additional information that could interfere with or prejudice the facts," the company continued. "We ask the fans, media, and members of the guild to act with prudence, discretion and respect, and avoid the spread of rumors or unconfirmed information, so as not to hinder the investigations and out of respect for all parties involved and their families."
"We deeply regret the loss of a life and express our solidarity with his family, friends and colleagues in the wrestling business."
