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 Hawty & Nawty
Posts: 20424
 
| Runs over and kills Kevin Ward Jr.
It really looked like an accident. You can't stop those cars on a dime. Thoughts? |
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 Shelter Dog Lover
Posts: 10277
| Terrible accident, you don't expect a driver to leave his car and be standing in the middle of a dimly lit track. Prayers for all involved.
Edited by rodeomom3 2014-08-10 9:14 AM
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I Need a Xanax!
Posts: 2774
 
| I am very saddened for the family and all involved but the very first thing I though of was WHY on Earth did he get out of his car and go out on the track toward the other cars??? He was nearly hit by another car right before Tony hit him..... |
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  Damn Yankee
Posts: 12390
Location: Somewhere between raising hell and Amazing Grace | Horrible tragedy......and if it had been anybody less famous then TS then we would never have even heard about it let alone be talking about it. |
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Cold hands and Warm Heart
Location: oklahoma | Used2B - 2014-08-10 9:14 AM I am very saddened for the family and all involved but the very first thing I though of was WHY on Earth did he get out of his car and go out on the track toward the other cars??? He was nearly hit by another car right before Tony hit him.....
That was going to be my question. He looked extremely angry when, ( I don't watch nascar) it seems like bumping etc is part of the race to gain advantage. I'm sure they're groomed throughout not to get out of their cars until help arrives. Make me wonder if they knew each other personally or was this an ongoing rivalry between them? Not thinking a conspiracy at all but a horrible tradgedy. Just doesn't make sense. I watched the video a couple of times, very sad. |
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 Famous for Not Complaining
Posts: 8848
Location: Broxton, Ga | Kevin should have never got out and put himself in the position he did.....sadly his emotions cost him his life. Did Tony hit him on purpose that we will never know..... Should he race today I would say not.
He better be preparing for the legal action to follow whether charges.....and or a lawsuit.
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 Ms. Elvis
Posts: 9606
Location: Running barrels or watching nascar | It was just announced Tony is not racing today! A backup driver, Regan Smith, is on his way! |
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 Fact Checker
Posts: 16575
Location: Displaced Iowegian | After watching the video several times, the man was weaving and running back and forth all over the track and was almost hit by another car. He was ANGRY and certainly wasn't interested in getting off of the track. It does look like TS tried to swerve his car but clipped him.......prayers for his family and TS...... |
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Famous for Not Complaining
Posts: 8848
Location: Broxton, Ga | They did just announce Tony would not race today. |
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Cold hands and Warm Heart
Location: oklahoma | Idk, I watched it again. Looks like his car fish tailed, like he gassed it when he passed by him, maybe to scare him and it clipped him instead. Very tragic. I'm not watching it again. I'm sure there will be ongoing investigations. I don't know anything about racing. |
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Damn Yankee
Posts: 12390
Location: Somewhere between raising hell and Amazing Grace | There are reports of people saying he gunned it right before he hit him, because you can hear it on a video, but all you hear on the video is other cars right in front of the stands, you cannot possibly here the cars across the track.
I think the general public should let the investigators do their jobs because nobody should be the judge and jury on this.
I am not suprised to see Tony not racing today. Put yourself in his shoes. I would not be able to race or function a day after knowing somebody died. |
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I'm a Cry Baby
Posts: 3781
Location: n.c. | Very tragic. Should never have happened. And you are right; if Tony hadn't been involved, you would have never heard about it.
This happens at race tracks all across the country. Emotions flare and you aren't thinking clearly. Yes, they bump and scrape.
These cars cost a bundle; it's the chance you take. Prayers for everyone involved.
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 A Somebody to Everybody
Posts: 41354
Location: Under The Big Sky Of Texas | Oh how horrible, I dont watch the races and havent watch the news, so did all this happen during a race? In front of fans? This sounds like a dumb question I know, but this is the first I have heard of this....Many many prayers going out to the familys of these men |
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 The Famous Hot Wing Chicken Girl
Posts: 2964
| From someone who has a racing background (My Dad is involved in NASCAR as well as some organizations..) I really don't think it's too much of an "accident". I definitely don't think Tony meant to kill the boy, but knowing Tony and that temper, he knew where he was and was trying to scare the you know what out of him.
I really hope he doesn't get away with a slap on the hand. He's gotten away with too much as is. |
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| A very dimly lit track, a car in front of Tony that kept him from seeing the guy til just the last moment, shock and a fraction of a second to react to seeing a person on the track. Long story short: the young man let his temper get the best of him, stepped out on that track to show his butt (road rage on the track) and it ended in him getting himself killed; people (some children no doubt) that will forever have that vision in their minds of seeing him get killed; his family that will forever grieve him; Tony who will forever have to live with what happened. Senseless, tragic occurence that was brought on by stupidity.
This situation has the possibility into turning in a huge thing that will effect many people. Tony might possibly be sued, though I can't imagine criminal charges will be filed....but who knows. The media attention and how people respond to the incident according to how they perceive it could have a rippling effect on Tony's team and sponsors. The track could get sued....certainly wouldn't surprise me a bit. Why? All because somebody decided to have a temper tantrum.
It's a tragedy and I pray for the young man's family as well as for Tony and all those in his camp who are likely to feel the backlash of this. |
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Hawty & Nawty
Posts: 20424
| runs4fun - 2014-08-11 9:10 AM A very dimly lit track, a car in front of Tony that kept him from seeing the guy til just the last moment, shock and a fraction of a second to react to seeing a person on the track. Long story short: the young man let his temper get the best of him, stepped out on that track to show his butt (road rage on the track) and it ended in him getting himself killed; people (some children no doubt) that will forever have that vision in their minds of seeing him get killed; his family that will forever grieve him; Tony who will forever have to live with what happened. Senseless, tragic occurence that was brought on by stupidity.
This situation has the possibility into turning in a huge thing that will effect many people. Tony might possibly be sued, though I can't imagine criminal charges will be filed....but who knows. The media attention and how people respond to the incident according to how they perceive it could have a rippling effect on Tony's team and sponsors. The track could get sued....certainly wouldn't surprise me a bit. Why? All because somebody decided to have a temper tantrum.
It's a tragedy and I pray for the young man's family as well as for Tony and all those in his camp who are likely to feel the backlash of this.
I'm in total agreement here. Two careers ended that day. Praying for all involved. |
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| cowgirlchic - 2014-08-10 11:28 AM From someone who has a racing background (My Dad is involved in NASCAR as well as some organizations..) I really don't think it's too much of an "accident". I definitely don't think Tony meant to kill the boy, but knowing Tony and that temper, he knew where he was and was trying to scare the you know what out of him.
I really hope he doesn't get away with a slap on the hand. He's gotten away with too much as is.
I think that is a very big assumption - knowing what Tony was thinking - and one that no one can know for sure. Shame on you.
My husband has racing experience, short track ovals - pavement and dirt tracks - as well as driving Nascar (back when it was Winston Cup and Busch Grand National) though retired long ago. He's looked at the video several times and says it was so dark on the track and the car in front of Tony kept him from seeing the guy til it was too late and that not even Tony with his temper would of done what your suggesting. The young man caused this accident and ultimately his own death by doing something stupid and irresponsible. Period.
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Damn Yankee
Posts: 12390
Location: Somewhere between raising hell and Amazing Grace | Has anyone been the driver in one of those cars? Because I don't think anyone can make even a fair assumption until you are behind the wheel.
There's a family, a very good family. a christian family, who's teenage son back over their daughter and killed her. Never judge. Just never judge..... |
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 Got to have my Pepsi
Posts: 6252
Location: Baden, PA | I watched it it more than a few times just trying to understand exactly what happened. The first thing I noticed was that The other driver got out of his car and walked out into a "hot track". The next thing is that driver was wearing all black on a track that wasn't lit all that great. From what I seen, the #45 had to juke to get around him. The #45 was infront of Stewart, this gave Tony not that much time to react. Tony did try to swerve to get around him, but still clipped him with the right rear wheel. There are a number of things that did contribute to this to compund matters. The first thing was Ward getting out of his car and walking out into the track. Unless the are circimstances that you need to get out of that car before the safety workers get there (I.e. fire) stay in the car. What he was wearing certainly contributed to it as well. Add to that caution speed (40-50 MPH) and it is a disaterous situation. Now I don't know if Tony uses a spotter at sprint car races. If he does, that spotter sould have been giving him the information that Ward got out his car. That could have made all the difference in the world. But that neither here nor there at this point.
http://www.motorsport.com/sprint/news/yes-tony-stewart-did-run-over-a-fellow-driver-who-was-killed-but-know-the-whole-story
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The Famous Hot Wing Chicken Girl
Posts: 2964
| runs4fun - 2014-08-10 11:18 AM cowgirlchic - 2014-08-10 11:28 AM From someone who has a racing background (My Dad is involved in NASCAR as well as some organizations..) I really don't think it's too much of an "accident". I definitely don't think Tony meant to kill the boy, but knowing Tony and that temper, he knew where he was and was trying to scare the you know what out of him.
I really hope he doesn't get away with a slap on the hand. He's gotten away with too much as is.
I think that is a very big assumption - knowing what Tony was thinking - and one that no one can know for sure. Shame on you.
My husband has racing experience, short track ovals - pavement and dirt tracks - as well as driving Nascar (back when it was Winston Cup and Busch Grand National) though retired long ago. He's looked at the video several times and says it was so dark on the track and the car in front of Tony kept him from seeing the guy til it was too late and that not even Tony with his temper would of done what your suggesting. The young man caused this accident and ultimately his own death by doing something stupid and irresponsible. Period.
Edited by cowgirlchic 2014-08-10 12:45 PM
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| cowgirlchic - 2014-08-10 1:43 PM runs4fun - 2014-08-10 11:18 AM cowgirlchic - 2014-08-10 11:28 AM From someone who has a racing background (My Dad is involved in NASCAR as well as some organizations..) I really don't think it's too much of an "accident". I definitely don't think Tony meant to kill the boy, but knowing Tony and that temper, he knew where he was and was trying to scare the you know what out of him.
I really hope he doesn't get away with a slap on the hand. He's gotten away with too much as is.
I think that is a very big assumption - knowing what Tony was thinking - and one that no one can know for sure. Shame on you.
My husband has racing experience, short track ovals - pavement and dirt tracks - as well as driving Nascar (back when it was Winston Cup and Busch Grand National) though retired long ago. He's looked at the video several times and says it was so dark on the track and the car in front of Tony kept him from seeing the guy til it was too late and that not even Tony with his temper would of done what your suggesting. The young man caused this accident and ultimately his own death by doing something stupid and irresponsible. Period.
This is not a contest as to who has the most information on the juicy gossip of the day. Prayers to all involved in the situation.
Edited by runs4fun 2014-08-10 12:57 PM
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Fact Checker
Posts: 16575
Location: Displaced Iowegian | cowgirlchic - 2014-08-10 12:43 PM runs4fun - 2014-08-10 11:18 AM cowgirlchic - 2014-08-10 11:28 AM From someone who has a racing background (My Dad is involved in NASCAR as well as some organizations..) I really don't think it's too much of an "accident". I definitely don't think Tony meant to kill the boy, but knowing Tony and that temper, he knew where he was and was trying to scare the you know what out of him.
I really hope he doesn't get away with a slap on the hand. He's gotten away with too much as is.
I think that is a very big assumption - knowing what Tony was thinking - and one that no one can know for sure. Shame on you.
My husband has racing experience, short track ovals - pavement and dirt tracks - as well as driving Nascar (back when it was Winston Cup and Busch Grand National) though retired long ago. He's looked at the video several times and says it was so dark on the track and the car in front of Tony kept him from seeing the guy til it was too late and that not even Tony with his temper would of done what your suggesting. The young man caused this accident and ultimately his own death by doing something stupid and irresponsible. Period.
We have certainly been down this road before and this is exactly how those "first hand accounts get BLOWN WAY OUT of PROPORTION" by those who know people .... who know people.... who know more facts.......who know what went on, etc, etc, etc......
What did you want TS to do.....They were all still running pretty fast. He was directly behind another car, who almost hit him, on a very dark and dusty track with an ENRAGED driver running wild on the track.... |
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Expert
Posts: 1561
| I read tony had a go pro on his car, that should clear some things up. |
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 Total Germophobe
Posts: 6443
Location: Montana | Please let me be the first to say that I know nothing about spring racing. The following is just my opinion from viewing the video.
I just watched the video and here is just my thoughts: Whether Tony Stewart did in fact try to hit him, I don't know. From the video I saw, I personally don't think so because it looked that he was right on the curve and he was drifting out. Some say that Tony Stewart sped up on the track and you can "tell" that by the sound. Here is another thought on that...if that did in fact happen, his reaction could have been to hit the brake and in fact hit the accelerator by mistake...I've done that myself in every day driving when something has surprised me, and luckily have not had anything bad happen. I would suspect that no one was anticipating that young man to get out of his car and be on the track. He should not have done that as it was not the right thing to do. It was something that could have been so easily prevented. I feel sorry for all people involved, but proper precautions could have been used to prevent it all by at least Kevin Ward, Jr., if not by Tony Stewart as well.
Edited by mtcanchazer 2014-08-10 1:39 PM
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A Somebody to Everybody
Posts: 41354
Location: Under The Big Sky Of Texas |
After I saw this thread I have been watching the updates on it, how terrible to think some one did this on purpose, I think it's was a horrible accident. And I dont know any body that races and I dont claim I know any inside info on this but I say its a horrible horrible accident. Dont be judging this man, unless you were in the car with him... Prayers for the familes |
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A Somebody to Everybody
Posts: 41354
Location: Under The Big Sky Of Texas | NJJ - 2014-08-10 1:32 PM cowgirlchic - 2014-08-10 12:43 PM runs4fun - 2014-08-10 11:18 AM cowgirlchic - 2014-08-10 11:28 AM From someone who has a racing background (My Dad is involved in NASCAR as well as some organizations..) I really don't think it's too much of an "accident". I definitely don't think Tony meant to kill the boy, but knowing Tony and that temper, he knew where he was and was trying to scare the you know what out of him.
I really hope he doesn't get away with a slap on the hand. He's gotten away with too much as is.
I think that is a very big assumption - knowing what Tony was thinking - and one that no one can know for sure. Shame on you.
My husband has racing experience, short track ovals - pavement and dirt tracks - as well as driving Nascar (back when it was Winston Cup and Busch Grand National) though retired long ago. He's looked at the video several times and says it was so dark on the track and the car in front of Tony kept him from seeing the guy til it was too late and that not even Tony with his temper would of done what your suggesting. The young man caused this accident and ultimately his own death by doing something stupid and irresponsible. Period.
What did you want TS to do.....They were all still running pretty fast. He was directly behind another car, who almost hit him, on a very dark and dusty track with an ENRAGED driver running wild on the track....
Yep this is how cr*p gets started by someone that knows more then what is being said because they have inside info..they claim. And then it really gets blown outa the water from hear say..
And Tony could have gunned his car to try to get around him if he had another car coming up on him to move ahead of it when he saw what was going to happen. Dont be judging,, |
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Cold hands and Warm Heart
Location: oklahoma | Not sure that anyone is judging, I don't know their heart. I do know mine however and the Op asked for thoughts and opinions. Right, wrong or indifferent, we're allowed to have them.
I don't know what exactly happened, I watched it several times and as with high profile people, we get emotionally attached. Like I said earlier, there will be investigations and it's surely a tragedy for all involved. |
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 A Lady with Fight
Posts: 2701
Location: NC | cowgirlchic - 2014-08-10 11:28 AM
From someone who has a racing background (My Dad is involved in NASCAR as well as some organizations..) I really don't think it's too much of an "accident". I definitely don't think Tony meant to kill the boy, but knowing Tony and that temper, he knew where he was and was trying to scare the you know what out of him.
I really hope he doesn't get away with a slap on the hand. He's gotten away with too much as is.
You don't know Tony Stewart. You know OF him and the reputation the media has given him. You can't tell squat from that video. And you can't tell squat from being in the stands! Those sprint cars are low to the ground and if you've ever been in/around them, they're a whole different breed. They're dirt cars. Not asphalt. And they don't offer a lot of visibility. Plus it was dark and the track lights cause glares. There's no way you or I or anyone watching knows what happened. I doubt Tony even knows for sure. I don't think he even realized the kid was mad at HIM. The video doesn't show exactly what happened to cause him to wreck. The driver shouldn't have been on the track but emotions run wild in this sport. They just do. He was being erratic on the track. Moving all over the place. Several cars almost hit him. It was a tragic accident. That's it.
You sound like a Tony hater. That's fine. Don't condemn the man bc of a reputation the media has produced for him. It was an accident. A tragic accident where tempers caused the untimely death of a 20 year old.
Edited by hlynn 2014-08-10 2:03 PM
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Fact Checker
Posts: 16575
Location: Displaced Iowegian | hlynn - 2014-08-10 1:55 PM cowgirlchic - 2014-08-10 11:28 AM From someone who has a racing background (My Dad is involved in NASCAR as well as some organizations..) I really don't think it's too much of an "accident". I definitely don't think Tony meant to kill the boy, but knowing Tony and that temper, he knew where he was and was trying to scare the you know what out of him.
I really hope he doesn't get away with a slap on the hand. He's gotten away with too much as is. You don't know Tony Stewart. You know OF him and the reputation the media has given him. You can't tell squat from that video. And you can't tell squat from being in the stands! Those sprint cars are low to the ground and if you've ever been in/around them, they're a whole different breed. They're dirt cars. Not asphalt. And they don't offer a lot of visibility. Plus it was dark and the track lights cause glares. There's no way you or I or anyone watching knows what happened. I doubt Tony even knows for sure. I don't think he even realized the kid was mad at HIM. The video doesn't show exactly what happened to cause him to wreck. The driver shouldn't have been on the track but emotions run wild in this sport. They just do. He was being erratic on the track. Moving all over the place. Several cars almost hit him. It was a tragic accident. That's it. You sound like a Tony hater. That's fine. Don't condemn the man bc of a reputation the media has produced for him. It was an accident. A tragic accident where tempers caused the untimely death of a 20 year old.
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A Somebody to Everybody
Posts: 41354
Location: Under The Big Sky Of Texas | hlynn - 2014-08-10 1:55 PM cowgirlchic - 2014-08-10 11:28 AM From someone who has a racing background (My Dad is involved in NASCAR as well as some organizations..) I really don't think it's too much of an "accident". I definitely don't think Tony meant to kill the boy, but knowing Tony and that temper, he knew where he was and was trying to scare the you know what out of him.
I really hope he doesn't get away with a slap on the hand. He's gotten away with too much as is. You don't know Tony Stewart. You know OF him and the reputation the media has given him. You can't tell squat from that video. And you can't tell squat from being in the stands! Those sprint cars are low to the ground and if you've ever been in/around them, they're a whole different breed. They're dirt cars. Not asphalt. And they don't offer a lot of visibility. Plus it was dark and the track lights cause glares. There's no way you or I or anyone watching knows what happened. I doubt Tony even knows for sure. I don't think he even realized the kid was mad at HIM. The video doesn't show exactly what happened to cause him to wreck. The driver shouldn't have been on the track but emotions run wild in this sport. They just do. He was being erratic on the track. Moving all over the place. Several cars almost hit him. It was a tragic accident. That's it. You sound like a Tony hater. That's fine. Don't condemn the man bc of a reputation the media has produced for him. It was an accident. A tragic accident where tempers caused the untimely death of a 20 year old.
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 pressure dripper
Posts: 8699
Location: the end of the rainbow | Having a temper and purposefully harming someone are pretty far apart on the "I know what he's like from past experience" scale. For me it's a pretty big conclusion for anyone to jump to that it was done on purpose. It was a tragic accident. |
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 Ms. Marine
Posts: 4641
Location: Texas | Looked like a terrible accident to me. Prayers to Tony and the Ward family. |
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 Veteran
Posts: 292
Location: Northeast Nebraska | The blame lies solely with the hot headed idiot that ran onto the "freeway" to act like an ass. The blue car nearly hit him first. I don't follow this "sport" and don't know any of these people, but the dead guy is dead because he was a stupid jerk. |
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 More bootie than waist!
Posts: 18425
Location: Riding Crackhead. | First of all the guy should have stayed in his car. He was a hot head himself for getting out on a yellow flag, dark out, poor lighting. That was stupid. Second Tony hit him with a rear tire. If he was aiming for him he would have gotten him with the front end or front fender. |
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Common Sense and then some
Location: So. California | I've only seen the one video. I'm sure there are many videos all from different angles. I think before anyone gets thrown under the bus, we need to know/see all the facts. More videos will surface - that is given.
The one video does not make the case one way or the other for me, and I'd like to hear what the drivers behind TS saw, as well as see what other video angles show. In no way do I think TS was trying to run over and seriously mame or kill Ward. However, these cars were under a caution flag, 40 MPH right? Seems you would have a bit of control at that slow of speed, even if it is on a dirt track... I don't know, I've never driven one and the visability was limited. There may not be a criminal case, but there may very will be a civil one. Thinking outloud here...
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A Lady with Fight
Posts: 2701
Location: NC | Anniemae - 2014-08-11 12:15 AM
I've only seen the one video. I'm sure there are many videos all from different angles. I think before anyone gets thrown under the bus, we need to know/see all the facts. More videos will surface - that is given.
The one video does not make the case one way or the other for me, and I'd like to hear what the drivers behind TS saw, as well as see what other video angles show. In no way do I think TS was trying to run over and seriously mame or kill Ward. However, these cars were under a caution flag, 40 MPH right? Seems you would have a bit of control at that slow of speed, even if it is on a dirt track... I don't know, I've never driven one and the visability was limited. There may not be a criminal case, but there may very will be a civil one. Thinking outloud here...
It was said they were doing 25mph, including Tony, as per ESPN.
A sprint car is like a go kart on crack. They have a whole lot of power, in a very small wheelbase with no transmission. Meaning they are very easy to get sideways, hence the style of racing on dirt. These cars get sideways with just a brush of the throttle. That dirt is slick. It is packed rock hard and shiny and slick.
Ok. Here's my attempt at explaining what these drivers can or can't see. I am by no means an expert in any way.
Ever been running down the road, doing the speed limit, and the car in front of you swerves suddenly to miss something and you end up clobbering it? Because you had limited visibility of what was in front of you right? Well let's say someone is passing you, on the right, and you have a 2 foot wide piece of metal hanging down from your truck on the right side and the front. And you're wearing a full face helmet with a HANS device. At night. With crappy street lights. They suddenly JUMP into your lane. Do you think you would see that with enough time to react? And HOW do you think you would react?
Just something to think about.
All the drivers, crewmembers, and spectators go into these races knowing they could be injured or killed. I don't think they have a civil case to stand on if they wanted to. If the family is sensible, they will realize that it was a terrible accident in which Kevin was not completely innocent in. He got out of his car and WENT INTO TRAFFIC. It was an accident.
I'm a Jr fan by the way. And I was super excited to see AJ win today. I haven't been a huge fan of Tony at times. But I won't persecute him for an accident. He has to live with knowing his car caused someone's death. I wouldn't wish that upon anyone. Ever. The man has a rough road ahead.
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Hungarian Midget Woman
Location: Midwest | I've seen the video. To me, it looked partly intentional but I don't think he meant to kill anyone.
I don't have any opinion on TS (don't follow him or NASCAR), and I hope for his souls sake it was an accident. I don't think he meant to kill him, but it looked to me like he meant to scare him. The kid was up yelling because TS had just wrecked him out. (Part of the sport)
They don't let you behind the wheel of a dirt track car unless you know your biz in handling it. I'm not sure why he'd hit the throttle unless he wanted to drift towards him. I know accidents can happen too, but I remain suspicious.
jmho and flame away
Word is he had a go pro running and hopefully the facts come out, but I doubt anything will come of this in the criminal arena. Civil is another story.
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| If there is indeed a civil suit, and if it prevails, what a shame! What a shame that a person chooses to get out of their race car for the express purpose of throwing a temper tantrum, runs out in front of approaching race cars and gets hit can cause anyone else from profiting off of it...if it happens we should all be appalled.
Edited to add: that's like someone choosing to walk up the alley way of a barrel race when they know another barrel racer is on their way full-speed and when they get plowed down by a horse and killed the family sues the rider, the arena, the association etc. Using the idea that a horse should be easy to stop no faster than they are going - 20 - 30 mph.. Ridiculous!! Would you feel responsible for hitting someone that CHOSE to walk up the alleyway- maybe a dark alleyway - especially when others start saying that you hit that person on purpose. Really? Think about it.
Edited by runs4fun 2014-08-11 7:39 AM
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Hungarian Midget Woman
Location: Midwest | runs4fun - 2014-08-11 7:34 AM If there is indeed a civil suit, and if it prevails, what a shame! What a shame that a person chooses to get out of their race car for the express purpose of throwing a temper tantrum, runs out in front of approaching race cars and gets hit can cause anyone else from profiting off of it...if it happens we should all be appalled.
Edited to add: that's like someone choosing to walk up the alley way of a barrel race when they know another barrel racer is on their way full-speed and when they get plowed down by a horse and killed the family sues the rider, the arena, the association etc. Using the idea that a horse should be easy to stop no faster than they are going - 20 - 30 mph.. Ridiculous!! Would you feel responsible for hitting someone that CHOSE to walk up the alleyway- maybe a dark alleyway - especially when others start saying that you hit that person on purpose. Really? Think about it.
It won't hold up in court if there is a civil suit, but I bet there will be one.
They have to get out of their car on a caution, but it's pretty obvious the deceased was PO'ed and emotion made him throw a fit.
The cars go all over the track on a caution to keep the tires warm. Those cars go over 100 and were running about 40 mph most likely there when he got hit. They don't stop on a dime, but I was pretty suprised to see him spin the tires like that and drift into him. I would think if he saw him even at the last minute, he would not have hit the throttle because on the dirt track that causes you to drift like he did.... like I said, I don't think he meant to kill anybody, but it looked to be like he was sort of revving the engine at him as a retalliation and it went bad. I really do hope it was just an accident.
I thought they had folks on the radio calling to drivers things that were ahead? If so, this should not have happened.... Wonder if the cops have the recording of it.
I don't think either party was totally innocent in this. I truly hope it was an accident, but either way, I bet TS's career is dunzo. |
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Elite Veteran
Posts: 729
Location: south central usa | as someone who has never been to a sprint race, IMO even at 25mph hitting the brakes would have simply thrown the back end of the car up the track hitting the guy even worse. looks as though he gunned it to throw the back end down the track away from him |
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Hungarian Midget Woman
Location: Midwest | runnink - 2014-08-11 8:29 AM as someone who has never been to a sprint race, IMO even at 25mph hitting the brakes would have simply thrown the back end of the car up the track hitting the guy even worse. looks as though he gunned it to throw the back end down the track away from him
the problem was with these cars, it just makes you drift out (towards the guy). It could have been he was just reacting and it made it worse.
the only one that really knows his true intentions is TS, and either way he's going to live with the fact that this happened for the rest of his life, since I'm assuming he never meant to kill anyone |
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 Miss Laundry Misshap
Posts: 5271
| I've watched dirt track races my whole life, from the little 4 cylinders to modifiers, late models and sprint cars. Sprint car handling is a totally different ball game than any other car.
BUT... To say they HAVE to get on the gas to make a turn is a complete joke and blatant LIE!! Otherwise how would they come into the pits and make hairpin turns around hundreds of people and other race cars without running over the whole mess of us??? Heck, 1/2 the time they come into the pits under NO power, motor not even running, to coast into their pit stall behind the hauler. Tell me how revving an engine to turn accomplishes that??
Did Tony mean to do it, probably not. Could he have been trying to spin the tires and throw dirt at the kid? Maybe? There are so many speculations, who knows, but I really hope the investigation is fair to both parties and we get a good honest judgement. I posted on FB that I lost respect for Tony, idk if I'll retract it or not. I will say the kid shouldn't have gotten out of the car, but drivers do it all the time!! There is a famous NASCAR moment where one guy throws his helmet at the car/driver he's piffed at!! So that part isn't new, just not smart. |
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 Own It and Move On
Location: The edge of no where | CYA Ranch - 2014-08-10 10:32 PM First of all the guy should have stayed in his car. He was a hot head himself for getting out on a yellow flag, dark out, poor lighting. That was stupid. Second Tony hit him with a rear tire. If he was aiming for him he would have gotten him with the front end or front fender.
I agree, it was just a tragic accident.
The victim was throwing a fit and jumped out of his car onto the track. Before TS hit him, he was almost hit by another car. I'm sorry for his family, but he was being incredibly stupid.
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 Warmblood with Wings
Posts: 27846
Location: Florida.. | I can't believe some that think he intentionally tried to run into him. The guy may be hotheaded but he's not a total ass knowing the consequences. Losing a life...losing a career.. Etc..stop the rumors and assumptions. Racers might be hotheaded but not murderers..the guy got out . and on track. |
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Hungarian Midget Woman
Location: Midwest | Nateracer - 2014-08-11 8:43 AM
BUT... To say they HAVE to get on the gas to make a turn is a complete joke and blatant LIE!! Otherwise how would they come into the pits and make hairpin turns around hundreds of people and other race cars without running over the whole mess of us??? Heck, 1/2 the time they come into the pits under NO power, motor not even running, to coast into their pit stall behind the hauler. Tell me how revving an engine to turn accomplishes that??
Did Tony mean to do it, probably not. Could he have been trying to spin the tires and throw dirt at the kid? Maybe? There are so many speculations, who knows, but I really hope the investigation is fair to both parties and we get a good honest judgement.
There is a famous NASCAR moment where one guy throws his helmet at the car/driver he's piffed at!! So that part isn't new, just not smart.
This |
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 BHW Resident Surgeon
Posts: 25352
Location: Bastrop, Texas | I saw the video. There's just no way I can see anything coming out of this in terms of criminal charges, unless there is some way of getting inside Stewart's head. |
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 Angel in a Sorrel Coat
Posts: 16030
Location: In a happy place | Bibliafarm - 2014-08-11 9:01 AM I can't believe some that think he intentionally tried to run into him. The guy may be hotheaded but he's not a total ass knowing the consequences. Losing a life...losing a career.. Etc..stop the rumors and assumptions. Racers might be hotheaded but not murderers..the guy got out . and on track.
I agree. |
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Hungarian Midget Woman
Location: Midwest | Bibliafarm - 2014-08-11 9:01 AM I can't believe some that think he intentionally tried to run into him. The guy may be hotheaded but he's not a total ass knowing the consequences. Losing a life...losing a career.. Etc..stop the rumors and assumptions. Racers might be hotheaded but not murderers..the guy got out . and on track.
I don't think anyone thinks he meant to murder the guy or even run him over, but some of us doubt whether or not he meant to throw dirt at him and got caught up in the crossfire
If he has audio from his communication with his guy in the tower, I bet that would likely clear his name.
Whether he did anything wrong or not, I don't see any charges being filed and I also don't see his career rebounding (but I don't watch a ton of NASCAR so I could be wrong about that) |
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Hawty & Nawty
Posts: 20424
| So sad for all involved. Have there been any statements of support for Tony from other drivers or the NASCAR federation? |
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| RidenFly - 2014-08-11 12:26 PM So sad for all involved. Have there been any statements of support for Tony from other drivers or the NASCAR federation?
The NASCAR Federation? What's that?
NASCAR'S STATEMENT (from CNN): "Our thoughts and prayers go out to the family, friends, and fellow competitors of Kevin Ward Jr.," NASCAR said in a written statement Sunday. "We support Tony Stewart's decision to miss today's race, and we will continue to respect the process and timeline of the local authorities and will continue to monitor this situation moving forward."
Edited by runs4fun 2014-08-11 11:37 AM
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Extreme Veteran
Posts: 528
| this track is 15 minutes from my house....the horrible part is a life was lost...i was there as was many of my family members and my so - who himself has raced almost 40 years. its just like the horse world accidents happens, everyone has an opinion - but it still comes back to another life has been tragically taken too soon stop the crap and say some prayers for all involved! The emergency crews and the fans have also been effected by this just like what happens at a rodeo...think about how you would want people to react. its another sport just like ours - unpredictable, dangerous and many times people react to a situation wrong and it puts themselves and others at risk! |
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Hungarian Midget Woman
Location: Midwest | I feel bad for all involved. Such a sad thing for everyone, really. Whatever happened, nobody meant for this boy to die. |
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 Elite Veteran
Posts: 814
Location: California | There is little to no visibility on the right side of a sprint car. The outside wing is extremely low on that side of the car. From watching the video and being around these cars my whole life, I truly think that Tony didn't even see him until it was too late. I believe that when he did see him, he kicked his back tires to the INSIDE of the track to try to avoid hitting him. It is the nature of these cars to give them gas to turn them.
The guy shouldn't have got out of his car. Period. He was walking in the middle of the track...mix that with a black fire suit and helmet and it would be extremely hard to any driver to see him. Nobody would expect someone to get out of their car like that. In my honest opinion, it was Ward's hot headed moment that cost him his life.
It is a very tragic loss for the family, the racing community, and fans. I predict that Tony will pretty much go into hiding after this incident. I believe his career will be over.
Edited by GoBuddyGo 2014-08-11 11:56 AM
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| I just saw a post on FB by someone who said this: Wouldn't it be nice if ALL our US soldiers that lose their lives defending the freedoms of people all around the world got as much attention as this incident on a race track? Tragedies happen everyday all over the world but some get lots of attention and others don't.
This racing incident is indeed a tragedy for everyone involved, but when put into perspective, I think this ladies statement says a lot about our society as a whole. |
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 Shipwrecked and Flat Out Zapped
Posts: 16390
Location: DUMPING CATS AND PIGS IN TEXAS :) | Who was Ward trying to point at? That has to be one of the worst decisions I've seen in a while. Walking in the middle of the track, pointing at some other car.......was he trying to stop another car? Was he trying to stop Tony Stewart's car? That's like trying to walk in the middle of a herd of running horses and getting one to stop.
Edited by LRQHS 2014-08-11 12:16 PM
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Elite Veteran
Posts: 814
Location: California | He was mad because he thought Tony put him into the wall. So, he was going out on the track to point his finger at Tony to show he was mad. |
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Shipwrecked and Flat Out Zapped
Posts: 16390
Location: DUMPING CATS AND PIGS IN TEXAS :) | GoBuddyGo - 2014-08-11 12:11 PM He was mad because he thought Tony put him into the wall. So, he was going out on the track to point his finger at Tony to show he was mad.
Wow. I probably would have just told Tony I was mad after the race......sent him a text or something. |
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A Lady with Fight
Posts: 2701
Location: NC | barrelracr131 - 2014-08-11 12:10 PM
Bibliafarm - 2014-08-11 9:01 AM I can't believe some that think he intentionally tried to run into him. The guy may be hotheaded but he's not a total ass knowing the consequences. Losing a life...losing a career.. Etc..stop the rumors and assumptions. Racers might be hotheaded but not murderers..the guy got out . and on track.
I don't think anyone thinks he meant to murder the guy or even run him over, but some of us doubt whether or not he meant to throw dirt at him and got caught up in the crossfire
If he has audio from his communication with his guy in the tower, I bet that would likely clear his name.
Whether he did anything wrong or not, I don't see any charges being filed and I also don't see his career rebounding (but I don't watch a ton of NASCAR so I could be wrong about that)
Unless things have changed, dirt tracks don't have two way radios. Only one way. So all the officials probably said over that radio is there was a caution for a car in the wall at whatever turn he was at. No spotters in this game.
Look up photos of a sprint car. See if you could see out the right side of it. My hubby showed me a photo of the wing of another TSR sprint car last night. And you can't see crap out of the right side. Nothing.
It was an accident. Period. Regardless of the circumstances. |
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Extreme Veteran
Posts: 501
| I know nothing about dirt cars or racing but have to say during tragedies like this people tend to lose their minds.
Someone said they could hear TS rev his engine on the film? No way. There were how many other cars on the track and they can tell it was him? Nope. Maybe there is other evidence he did rev the engine but "the film" and hearing it is faulty.
Aside from the who is at fault arguement, WHY DO THEY SELL ALL BLACK FIRE SUITS?!! We all know they look cool but visibility is an issue, don't manufacture black suits, don't buy them. Just seems like it would be a good idea in all cases, not just here. Dirty windshields or visors, bad lights, moisture, all things that make visibility bad. Don't add to it. |
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 Half-Eaten Cookies
Posts: 2076
Location: Fort Worth / Springtown | runs4fun - 2014-08-11 7:34 AM If there is indeed a civil suit, and if it prevails, what a shame! What a shame that a person chooses to get out of their race car for the express purpose of throwing a temper tantrum, runs out in front of approaching race cars and gets hit can cause anyone else from profiting off of it...if it happens we should all be appalled.
Edited to add: that's like someone choosing to walk up the alley way of a barrel race when they know another barrel racer is on their way full-speed and when they get plowed down by a horse and killed the family sues the rider, the arena, the association etc. Using the idea that a horse should be easy to stop no faster than they are going - 20 - 30 mph.. Ridiculous!! Would you feel responsible for hitting someone that CHOSE to walk up the alleyway- maybe a dark alleyway - especially when others start saying that you hit that person on purpose. Really? Think about it.
I know, but it happens all the time in those races -- Tony even does it (althought there may be some rule changes, now)! Just like I don't understand why people congregate on horse and on foot at the mouth of an alley in the middle of a barrel race or rodeo - but they do it all the time and it's dangerous. |
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 I Don't Brag
Posts: 6960
| Let's change the circumstances just a little bit......
A couple are driving down a busy freeway and get in to a horrible fight. Driver slams on the brakes after passenger screams repeatedly "Stop the car!!" and the passenger jumps out in the heat of the moment and runs out in to traffic, desperate in the heat of the moment to get away......and gets hit after several cars manage to dodge him/ her.
And you blame the driver of the second car???? Part of the sport or not, if you run out in to traffic shaking your fist at oncoming traffic there are likely to be severe consequences.
Is it a terrible tragedy? YES!
Should it be actionable legally? Not IMHO but the lawyers will do anything to make a buck. |
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 Elite Veteran
Posts: 999
Location: Sunny So Cal | prayers for both sides. only time will tell |
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| txbredbr - 2014-08-11 2:04 PM runs4fun - 2014-08-11 7:34 AM If there is indeed a civil suit, and if it prevails, what a shame! What a shame that a person chooses to get out of their race car for the express purpose of throwing a temper tantrum, runs out in front of approaching race cars and gets hit can cause anyone else from profiting off of it...if it happens we should all be appalled.
Edited to add: that's like someone choosing to walk up the alley way of a barrel race when they know another barrel racer is on their way full-speed and when they get plowed down by a horse and killed the family sues the rider, the arena, the association etc. Using the idea that a horse should be easy to stop no faster than they are going - 20 - 30 mph.. Ridiculous!! Would you feel responsible for hitting someone that CHOSE to walk up the alleyway- maybe a dark alleyway - especially when others start saying that you hit that person on purpose. Really? Think about it. I know, but it happens all the time in those races -- Tony even does it (althought there may be some rule changes, now)! Just like I don't understand why people congregate on horse and on foot at the mouth of an alley in the middle of a barrel race or rodeo - but they do it all the time and it's dangerous.
Sadly, this young man was so young and had no doubt seen this kind of behavior countless times and therefore considered it acceptable. As a matter of fact, he may of considered it to be expected of him as a race car driver that had been "spun out" by another raceer. God rest his soul, it didn't work out for him. Hopefully, this incident will make others think twice before they do the same thing.
Race cars are dangerous. Getting out of a race car and running out into traffic is really dangerous. Horses are dangerous. Barrel racing is dangerous. We all choose what we are willing to risk when decide to participate.
Edited by runs4fun 2014-08-11 2:44 PM
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Boot Detective
Posts: 1900
| I have watched the video over and over. IMO the kid committed suicide by getting out of his car and walking into the traffic throwing a fit. He used very poor judgement. On the other hand, the car ahead of Tony S appears to slow down to avoid the guy but then Tony's car appears to speed up and swerve/spin out towards the boy. I have read a lot of posts today about how those cars handle and about the blind view to the right side. I still don't have an opinion whether if was a total accident or not but the video I have seen does make it look bad on T's part. Hopefully after all the racers see this, they will be well coached to stay in their car until all the action stops. |
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I'm a Cry Baby
Posts: 3781
Location: n.c. | It's part of the driver's meeting at every race track in the country; supposed to be standard procedure. You never get out of your car after a wreck unless you are in grave physical danger. NEVER!!! |
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Shipwrecked and Flat Out Zapped
Posts: 16390
Location: DUMPING CATS AND PIGS IN TEXAS :) | LRQHS - 2014-08-11 12:19 PM GoBuddyGo - 2014-08-11 12:11 PM He was mad because he thought Tony put him into the wall. So, he was going out on the track to point his finger at Tony to show he was mad. Wow. I probably would have just told Tony I was mad after the race......sent him a text or something.
Someone dislikes this statement......but, in retrospect it probably would have been a better decision don't you think??? |
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Shipwrecked and Flat Out Zapped
Posts: 16390
Location: DUMPING CATS AND PIGS IN TEXAS :) | LRQHS - 2014-08-11 3:19 PM LRQHS - 2014-08-11 12:19 PM GoBuddyGo - 2014-08-11 12:11 PM He was mad because he thought Tony put him into the wall. So, he was going out on the track to point his finger at Tony to show he was mad. Wow. I probably would have just told Tony I was mad after the race......sent him a text or something.
So, that wouldn't have been a better decision? You actually wanted him to die? Ummmm, ok.... |
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 I Prefer to Live in Fantasy Land
Posts: 64864
Location: In the Hills of Texas | runs4fun - 2014-08-11 12:02 PM I just saw a post on FB by someone who said this: Wouldn't it be nice if ALL our US soldiers that lose their lives defending the freedoms of people all around the world got as much attention as this incident on a race track? Tragedies happen everyday all over the world but some get lots of attention and others don't.
This racing incident is indeed a tragedy for everyone involved, but when put into perspective, I think this ladies statement says a lot about our society as a whole.
I couldn't agree more.
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Hearts at Home
Posts: 2754
Location: Some where over the Rainbow | I am a huge Tony Stewart fan and I don't beileve this was intentional at all....I have seen the video and really don't want to see it again. My heart felt thoughts and prayers go out to the Ward family and to Tony Stewart as well. Tony is very competitive and can be a hot head yes but in no way is he a unfeeling man that would intentionally do harm on anyone, Ive been told Tony is a great guy with a huve heart and I'm sure he is torn up over all of this and I will not assume anything other than The Ward family and Tony are going through alot right and need prayers and understanding. May God give them all strength, peace and understanding to get through this.
Edited by Poohsmum 2014-08-11 10:49 PM
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More bootie than waist!
Posts: 18425
Location: Riding Crackhead. | Someone asked about spotters. Sprint car doesn't have spotters like Nascar does. |
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Common Sense and then some
Location: So. California | Nateracer - 2014-08-11 6:43 AM I've watched dirt track races my whole life, from the little 4 cylinders to modifiers, late models and sprint cars. Sprint car handling is a totally different ball game than any other car.
BUT... To say they HAVE to get on the gas to make a turn is a complete joke and blatant LIE!! Otherwise how would they come into the pits and make hairpin turns around hundreds of people and other race cars without running over the whole mess of us??? Heck, 1/2 the time they come into the pits under NO power, motor not even running, to coast into their pit stall behind the hauler. Tell me how revving an engine to turn accomplishes that??
Did Tony mean to do it, probably not. Could he have been trying to spin the tires and throw dirt at the kid? Maybe? There are so many speculations, who knows, but I really hope the investigation is fair to both parties and we get a good honest judgement. I posted on FB that I lost respect for Tony, idk if I'll retract it or not. I will say the kid shouldn't have gotten out of the car, but drivers do it all the time!! There is a famous NASCAR moment where one guy throws his helmet at the car/driver he's piffed at!! So that part isn't new, just not smart.
That driver was Tony Stewart, he was the one who threw his helmet. Ironic, isn't it. 
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 Expert
Posts: 4121
Location: SE Louisiana | I don't follow race race cars at all... But even I know the only reason to get out of your car after a crash is to get OFF the track... I can see he was upset because Stewart ran him into the wall.... But what he did was foolish.. Even for a 20 year old... Perfect example of Road Rage on a track.. Unfortunately this young man will never learn from his mistake.. But perhaps others will...
Edited by komet. 2014-08-12 4:32 AM
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 Goat Giver
Posts: 23166
| Frenchie - 2014-08-11 12:59 PM I know nothing about dirt cars or racing but have to say during tragedies like this people tend to lose their minds.
Someone said they could hear TS rev his engine on the film? No way. There were how many other cars on the track and they can tell it was him? Nope. Maybe there is other evidence he did rev the engine but "the film" and hearing it is faulty.
Aside from the who is at fault arguement, WHY DO THEY SELL ALL BLACK FIRE SUITS?!! We all know they look cool but visibility is an issue, don't manufacture black suits, don't buy them. Just seems like it would be a good idea in all cases, not just here. Dirty windshields or visors, bad lights, moisture, all things that make visibility bad. Don't add to it.
My husband wears a black fire suit. I bought him a purple one with a yellow stripe and he didn't like it..........he wore it a little but prefers the black. He is also smart enough to stay off the dang track.
A life was lost and many lives were changed. If you were not on the track or in Stewart's car, I don't think you can know what happened. I hope all those judging are perfect........ |
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Tony Stewart