Tony Stewart Involved in Fatal Incident at Sprint Race in New York

CANANDAIGUA, NY - RIS - NASCAR Sprint Cup driver Tony Stewart was involved in an accident at Canandaigua Motorsports Park that killed another driver, Kevin Ward, Jr. Stewart, three-time NASCAR champion was uninjured in the incident.

The accident happened as Ward, whose car was disabled on the track after an incident with Stewart. Ward exited his car and was walking on the track in what appeared to be an effort to confront Stewart, who was still driving in the event under the caution flag. Ward was in the line of traffic and it appears that one car was able to swerve to avoid him but he was hit by Stewart’s car. Ward was transported to a local hospital where he was pronounced dead.

Stewart was participating in this event, which is about two hours north of Watkins Glen as part of the Glen weekend which includes Sunday’s Cheez-It 355 Sprint Cup race. Stewart was originally schedule to race in that event but has withdrawn in light of the accident and will be replaced by Regan Smith.

Ontario County Sheriff Philip Povero said, “There are no charges pending at this time and this is an ongoing investigation”. He said that Stewart was cooperating with the investigation.

Stewart Haas Racing issued a statement that said, “Our thoughts and prayers go out to his family and friends”.