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.