Three-time NASCAR champion Tony Stewart's car was involved in the death of Kevin Ward at a race in New York last night.
A very sad story has emerged from the world of NASCAR overnight. Tony Stewart, a three-time NASCAR champion and the co-owner of one of the biggest teams in the sport, is being investigated by race officials after a car he was driving hit and killed a fellow driver who was walking across the track.
Stewart was taking part in a race in New York at Canandaigua Motorsports Park when he and a driver named Kevin Ward collided. Ward got out of his car and and as Stewart came around on the next lap, the back right wing of his car kicked out and struck Ward, sending the 20-year old flying into the air. Ward was taken to hospital but he was pronounced dead on arrival.
Stewart-Haas Racing, the team Stewart co-owns, released this 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.”
Local police are not investigating the incident as criminal at this stage and Stewart is reported to be co-operating fully with police and race officials.
