Tony Stewart's Racing Team Releases Statement After Accident

A spokesman for Tony Stewart‘s racing team, Stewart-Haas Racing, has released a statement following the tragic accident that driver was involved in on Saturday (August 9) in Upstate N.Y.

“A tragic accident took place last night during a sprint car race in which Tony Stewart was participating,” spokesman Mike Arning said (via USA Today). “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.”

20-year-old driver Kevin Ward, Jr. died in the accident after he got out of his car on the track in the middle of the race and rushed at Tony‘s car.

“This is an ongoing investigation of an on-track crash,” Sheriff Philip C. Povero said, adding that Tony has been cooperative and that the investigation is not criminal. “Next is continuing interviews, a continued evaluation of evidence we have, including video, and there is certainly going to be an evaluation of medical evidence when it is collected from the autopsy.”

We continue to send out our thoughts to Kevin‘s loved ones during this difficult time.