Sunday, August 10, 2014

Tony Stewart Hits Driver In Sprint Car Race, Later Dies (UPDATED)

[HT: Canandaiqua (N.Y.) Messenger]

Saturday night while participating in a sprint car race in Canandaiqua, New York, 30 miles southeast of Rochester, three time NASCAR sprint cup champion Tony Stewart was involved in an accident between turns one and 2 with another driver identified as Kevin Ward, Jr.

Ward spun out after contact with Stewart.  According to the Associated Press video evidence shows Ward approaching Stewart's car while the track is under caution before he was hit and hurtled 50 feet.

Ontario County sheriff Phillip Povero said the driver was pronouned dead at a Canandaiqua, NY hospital.

Here is said video evidence.




Stewart-Haas Racing released the following statement:

"A tragic accident took place last night during a sprint car race in which Tony Stewart was participating,  Tony was unhurt, but a fellow competitor lost his life. Our thoughts and prayers go out to his family and friends. We're still attempting to sort through all the details and we appreciate your understanding during this difficult time."

Povero said Stewart was quetioned and was fully cooperative during questioning.  The incident is not being investigated as a criminal manner.

Stewart is scheduled to race Sunday in the Sprint Cup race at Watkins Glen, NY.  

1600 UPDATE: The early word from Povero is they're not convinced of a criminal act by anyone involved...

From MRN's Pete Pistone via his Twitter

"At this moment there are no facts or evidence that would support a criminal charge or indicate criminal intent.”

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