WATKINS GLEN, N.Y. — Tony Stewart released a statement Sunday following the fatal accident involving Kevin Ward Jr. Saturday night at Canandiagua Motorsports Park.
Stewart said, “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.”
NASCAR released this statement from Daytona Beach, Florida Sunday morning, “Our thoughts and prayers go out to the family, friends and fellow competitors of Kevin Ward Jr. We support Tony Stewart’s decision and will continue to monitor this situation moving forward.”
Two race cars, Tony Stewart in the second car, approached as Ward was walking on the track. Ward gestured toward the cars and the first car swerved to avoid Ward, then Stewart hit him. Ward was treated on the track by medical staff and taken to F.F. Thomspon Hospital where he was pronounced dead at 11:15 p.m. Saturday. Police say Stewart is cooperating with the ongoing investigation.
