DAYTONA BEACH, FLA
At least 28 people were injured — two critically — during the last lap of the NASCAR Nationwide Series race at Daytona International Speedway on Saturday, officials said, when a car slammed into the catch fence and came apart.
The incident was the result of a last-lap crash in the battle for the win. Kyle Larson’s car was launched into the fence as drivers crashed around him and
Tony Stewart took the checkered flag. The suspension and tires from Larson’s car went into the fence, with one tire appearing to sail over it. The front end was sheared off of Larson’s car, but the driver climbed from it.
NATIONWIDE CRASH
A scary wreck marred the end of the
NASCAR's Nationwide race at Daytona. See photos.
Daytona International Speedway President Joie Chitwood III confirmed that 14 people were transported off property and an additional 14 were treated in the at-track care center.
“First and foremost our thoughts and prayers are with our race fans,” Chitwood read from a prepared statement Saturday night. “Following the incident we responded appropriately according to our safety protocols, and had emergency medical personnel at the incident immediately. ... We're in the process of repairing the facility and will be ready to go racing tomorrow.”
Chitwood said that those injured were located in the section just outside of where Larson’s car hit the fence and the crossover gate. Chitwood declined to give an update on injuries.
Halifax Health spokesman Byron Cogdell said 12 spectators were treated in the hospital's emergency room, seven from injuries related to the crash - including one with life-threatening injuries and one child in critical condition - and five non-related issues. All patients were stable.
The
Associated Press later reported at least 30 were injured, citing local officials.
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