BARBERVILLE, Fla.: A horrific crash marred Night 6 of the DIRTcar Nationals at Volusia Speedway Park Sunday.
The incident occurred at the exit of Turn 2 during the 30-lap Sprint Car feature. There was a chain reaction, and the cars of Jason Sides and Dale Blaney got upside down. Rico Abreu was also involved in the crash.
Blaney’s car cleared the catch fence and went into the pit area where people were standing. All drivers involved walked away uninjured, but ambulances and medical crews were summoned to the area.
A medical helicopter arrived on the scene. According to the Volusia County Sheriff, three people were transported to the hospital, two by ambulance and one by helicopter. Two were transported as trauma alerts.
Racing action was delayed an hour and 15 minutes. Donny Schatz won the 30-lap main event. Speedway officials released the following statement after racing was complete.
“Three participants in the pit area were injured in an incident at a DIRTcar Nationals World of Outlaws event at Volusia Speedway Park Sunday night when a car went through the fence in turn two. All patients were treated and transported to Halifax Health Medical Center.”
Officials have since identified all three people involved. Mr. Gary Streek, of the United Kingdom, has been discharged. His uncle, Alan Wardel, was admitted briefly after experiencing some discomfort while visiting Streek. He has also been discharged.
Michael Brooks 69, of Kalamazoo, Mich., and Justin Allgaier crew chief Kelly Kovski also sustained injuries during the incident. Kovski is listed in stable condition. Both families have requested privacy.
Allgaier will not compete in the remainder of the DIRTcar Nationals. Racing action at Volusia Speedway Park will continue as scheduled tonight.