Netflix's 'Untold' Examines Hawthorne Hill Shooting Case

Netflix's 'Untold' documentary series has added another chapter to its exploration of contentious events with "Untold: The Shooting at Hawthorne Hill," set to premiere on March 26, 2026. The film examines a 2019 shooting incident at Hawthorne Hill in New Jersey involving Michael Barisone, a retired Olympic equestrian, and Lauren Kanarek, a dressage student.

The documentary presents a rare opportunity to hear directly from the central figures in the case. Both Barisone and Kanarek are interviewed throughout the film, offering their perspectives on the events that culminated in the shooting. Kanarek survived the incident, which has since become a subject of significant attention within the equestrian community.

The case itself centers on the shooting of Kanarek at Hawthorne Hill, which prompted criminal charges against Barisone. He was charged with two counts of attempted murder following the incident. The legal proceedings that followed drew considerable interest, particularly given Barisone's prominence as a retired Olympic athlete and the tight-knit nature of the dressage world.

Barisone's defense strategy centered on an insanity defense. The jury ultimately accepted this argument, acquitting him on the grounds that he was not guilty by reason of insanity. Following the verdict, Barisone was committed to a mental institution. However, a subsequent evaluation determined that he was no longer insane, leading to his release.

The path to the shooting was marked by escalating tensions between the parties involved. Prior to the incident, there were documented social media posts, 911 calls, and mutual accusations of spying. These elements paint a picture of conflict that grew increasingly fractious over time, providing context for understanding how the situation deteriorated to the point of violence.

As part of Netflix's "Untold" series, this documentary joins other installments that have examined controversial or misunderstood events across various fields. The series format allows for in-depth exploration of complex situations that often resist simple narratives or easy conclusions. In this case, the presence of both Barisone and Kanarek as interview subjects suggests the film aims to present multiple viewpoints on the incident and its circumstances.

The equestrian community's attention to this case reflects how incidents involving prominent figures within niche sporting worlds can resonate deeply within those circles. The dressage world, while relatively small compared to other sports, has its own networks and reputation dynamics that would have been affected by an incident of this magnitude.

The documentary's release comes years after the 2019 incident, allowing for perspective and reflection that might not have been possible immediately following the shooting or trial. With both survivor and defendant speaking on camera, viewers will have the opportunity to form their own understanding of the complex circumstances surrounding the case.

**Sources:**

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KwChW63vUUI

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FsP18xDSEDY