Watch CBS News

Wrestling Legend Charged With Third Degree Murder In Girlfriend's 1983 Death

By Justin Udo, Todd Quinones

PHILADELPHIA (CBS) – Former professional wrestling superstar Jimmy "Superfly" Snuka is facing charges in connection with the death of his girlfriend more than 30 years ago.

"Charges of third-degree murder and involuntary manslaughter have been filed today against former professional wrestler James Snuka in connection with the 1983 death of his 23-year-old girlfriend Nancy L. Argentino of Brooklyn, New York," said Lehigh County District Attorney James Martin.

CBS 3 Eyewitness News Reporter Todd Quinones spoke with Nancy's sister over the phone.

"Very happy because it's been a long road," she said.

Argentino's death remained a cold case until last year when the Lehigh County District Attorney reopened the case.

A grand jury was convened, leading to Tuesday's charges.

Authorities say Argentino sustained serious injuries to her head while staying with Snuka inside a Whitehall Township motel.  She later died at the hospital.

The then 39-year-old was wrestling at an event at the Allentown fairgrounds.

No one answered the door at the wrestler's home in Camden County Tuesday.

His neighbors say he is well liked.

"I don't know. All this time passed and now they're trying to get new charges against him, I don't know," said a neighbor.

 

 

 

Snuka was one of the most popular wrestlers in the WWF throughout the 80's and 90's.

The WWE released the following statement: "WWE expresses its continued sympathy to the Argentino family for their loss. Ultimately this legal matter will be decided by our judicial system."

CBS 3 Eyewitness News is told Snuka turned himself in to Lehigh County authorities today.

Snuka, who is battling stomach cancer, is out on bail tonight.

 

View CBS News In
CBS News App Open
Chrome Safari Continue
Be the first to know
Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting.