On September 23, 1978 — While riding as a passenger in a car, Lyman Bostock is killed by the estranged husband of Barbara Smith, who mistakenly shoots the 27 year-old Angel outfielder in the right temple while attempting to murder his wife. After the first trial results in a hung jury, Leonard Smith, the perpetrator, is found not guilty by reason of insanity and will serve only seven months after the verdict, prompting the Indiana legislature to change the state’s laws regarding insanity.
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Sources:
Baseball Reference September 23
National Pastime September 23
Retro Sheet
Hall of Fame
SABR Games Project
Replay The Game