USA TODAY - 2 doctors cleared in John Ritter's death

This story has been sent from the mobile device of Bombastic4000@gmail.com. For real-time mobile news, go to m.usatoday.com.

GLENDALE, Calif.
By Linda Deutsch, Associated Press

A jury cleared a cardiologist and a radiologist on Friday of negligence in the diagnosis and treatment of actor John Ritter, who died of a torn aorta in 2003.

Jurors found that the radiologist advised Ritter to follow up with treatment by a physician after a body scan two years before his death. Ritter didn't follow the order.

The lawsuit was brought by Ritter's widow and children. The 9-3 verdict means there is no damage judgment against the doctors. Verdicts do not have to be unanimous in civil cases.

Radiologist Matthew Lotysch testified he told Ritter he had calcification in three coronary arteries and should consult other doctors. But in a related finding, the jury decided that Ritter's failure to pursue that medical consultation was not a cause of his death.

When he died on Sept. 11, 2003, Ritter was starring in 8 Simple Rules ... for Dating My Teenage Daughter. He was 54.

Website address: http://www.usatoday.com/life/people/2008-03-14-ritter-verdict_N.htm