Following a 15-car accident at the Las Vegas 300 IndyCar series finale, British driver Dan Wheldon has tragically lost his life.
Last night, motor racing was plunged into mourning due to the fatal crash involving British driver Dan Wheldon during the finale of the Las Vegas 300 IndyCar series.
The 33-year-old succumbed to injuries sustained in the multi-car wreck. His vehicle went airborne across another car before striking the fencing surrounding the racetrack.
Wheldon was among the most accomplished drivers in America, having won the prestigious Indianapolis 500 twice, in 2005 and 2011.
The chaotic scene saw several cars airborne while others careened along the track engulfed in flames.
“IndyCar is deeply saddened to confirm that Dan Wheldon has succumbed to unsurvivable injuries,” said IndyCar chief executive Randy Bernard. “Our thoughts and prayers are with his family during this difficult time.”
News of Wheldon’s passing reached his fellow drivers just before Bernard’s official announcement was made public.
“IndyCar, alongside its drivers and owners, has decided to halt the race. As a tribute to Dan Wheldon, the drivers will partake in a five-lap salute,” Bernard remarked.
The accident, which occurred coming out of Turn 2 on the 1.5 mile Las Vegas oval during the 12th lap, left Townsend Bell’s car upside down amidst a cloud of smoke and debris scattered across the track.
“I’ve never witnessed such a catastrophic scene in my entire racing career,” stated Danica Patrick, who was competing in her last race as a full-time IndyCar driver before transitioning to NASCAR.
Canadian driver Paul Tracy described it as “a horrendous accident.” He had previously reported that a medical team was urgently attending to Wheldon prior to him being airlifted to the hospital.
Official confirmation of his death was issued two hours after the race was eventually called off.
