A drag racing driver was killed in a car crash at a racetrack in Mahoning County, Ohio on Saturday night.
Al Zukauskas was killed when his jet dragster crashed on the track during a race at Quaker City Motorsports Park, 21-WFMJ reported. The crash reportedly occurred during the race track’s “Night of Fire” event.
Zukauskas’ car Hot Blade was going 286 miles per hour when it crashed. While it is not yet clear what caused the accident, video footage captured by audience members shows that the vehicle collided with the track’s side wall and exploded. First responders say the dragster rolled over and caught fire, reported WFMJ.
Quaker City Motorsports, where Zukauskas was a regular, mourned Zukauskas’ death, in a social media post, writing: “The Fox family and all the QCMP staff want to extend our deepest sympathy to the family and friends of Al Zukauskas, the driver of Hot Blade.”
“He was a long-time racer who tragically lost his life in a high-speed crash,” said QCMP. “To spectators, Al was a great racer. To the racing community, Al was a father, husband, and a friend who enjoyed racing and entertaining crowds.”
“He will be sadly missed by all who knew him,” they added.
Summit Motorsports Park, another drag racing facility near Norwalk, Ohio also offered condolences.
“For years, Al entertained thousands of fans at our annual Cornwell Tools Night Under Fire, among other events, and we were truly looking forward to having him at this year’s Cornwell Tools Night Under Fire in his Hot Blade jet dragster,” said park spokesperson Mary Lendzion.
“In addition to being professional, he was passionate about being a jet vehicle pilot and putting on a show for fans. We send our love and prayers to his family, friends, fellow racers and fans at this incredibly difficult time,” the statement added.
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