Mixed martial arts fighter pleads not guilty in friend’s death

A mixed martial arts fighter charged in connection with his best friend's death pleaded not guilty Tuesday to one count of involuntary manslaughter.

Authorities said Jason Sindelar, 25, beat DeMario Reynolds Sr., 26, in June after he tried to stop a fight between Sindelar and his girlfriend in a Luxor hotel room. Reynolds died following the altercation.

The Clark County coroner's office determined Reynolds died as a result of an overdose of cocaine, Ecstasy, and alcohol.

The physical altercation was a contributing factor and the death was ruled a homicide, the coroner's office stated.

Sindelar originally was charged with second-degree murder, but a Las Vegas justice of the peace dismissed the charge after a preliminary hearing earlier this month.

If convicted of involuntary manslaughter, Sindelar could face probation or up to four years in prison.

Sindelar remained free on $50,000 bond. A trial was scheduled for April.

Contact reporter Francis McCabe at fmccabe@reviewjournal.com or 702-380-1039.