Tragedy occurred Saturday night in upstate New York during a sprint car race where NASCAR star Tony Stewart ran over and killed fellow driver Kevin Ward Jr. The incident happen after Ward left his car after being spun out Stewart. On the video, you could see Ward making a gesture towards Stewart before ultimately being fatally struck by Stewart’s car.

Stewart released the following statement today:

There aren’t words to describe the sadness I feel about the accident that took the life of Kevin Ward Jr. It’s a very emotional time for all involved, and it is the reason I’ve decided not to participate in today’s race at Watkins Glen. my thoughts and prayers are with his family, friends and everyone affected by this tragedy.

Afterwards Stewart was questioned by police and eventually released while the accident itself is being treated as an on the track incident. Stewart was also going to make his way down to Watkins Glen International Speedway to compete in the Cheez-It 355 but decided to pull out.

Meanwhile, Kevin Ward Jr, a promising Spring Car driver was only 20 years old.

@TMSNXAdam