Graphic Video Shows NASCAR Driver Hitting, Killing Fellow Racer

NASCAR driver Tony Stewart struck and killed a sprint car driver Saturday night in what his team is calling a “tragic accident.”

The incident occurred at the Canandaigua Motorsports Park, when Kevin Ward Jr. emerged from his crashed vehicle and tried to flag down Stewart’s car. The car ahead of Stewart’s swerved to avoid him, but Stewart crashed right into the darkly-dressed Ward, sending him flying. He was later pronounced dead at the hospital.

Stewart was uninjured and the remainder of the race was cancelled. It is not being investigated as a homicide.

“Our thoughts and prayers go out to his family and friends,” a spokesperson for Stewart’s team said. “We’re still attempting to sort through all the details.”

UPDATE 2:15 p.m.: Stewart released the following statement Sunday afternoon:

“There aren’t words to describe the sadness I feel about the accident that took the life of Kevin Ward Jr. It’s a very emotional time for all involved, and it is the reason I’ve decided not to participate in today’s race at Watkins Glen. My thoughts and prayers are with his family, friends and everyone affected by this tragedy.”

Watch the video below. WARNING: GRAPHIC.

Watch the report from CNN below on the incident:

[Image via screengrab]

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