Nothing has been ruled out in regards to the fatal crash involving Tony Stewart that killed 20-year-old sprint car driver Kevin Ward Jr.
Speaking on Monday Sheriff Philip C. Povero of Ontario County, New York said “all options remain open.”
Povero again stressed that “This is an ongoing investigation, and all options remain available. We’re continuing to gather and analyze every piece of evidence we can.”
The right rear tire of Stewart’s car struck Ward on Saturday night at Canandaigua (N.Y.) Motorsports Park. Ward was on foot choosing to approach Stewart’s car following a crash involving the two.
Right now Stewart is not facing any charges relating to the incident as authorities continue to collect video and evidence from spectators.
Stewart did not race in Sunday’s NASCAR Sprint Cup Series race at Watkins Glen. A five-time winner of that event he was considered one of the favorites to win the Cheez-It 355. Instead Regan Smith raced his No. 14 car finishing 37th.
Stewart issued the following statement during the race: “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.”
Ontario County (N.Y.) Sheriff says ‘all options remain open’ in Tony Stewart case» http://t.co/I4qdPNe21K #NASCAR pic.twitter.com/p7SJOiaMPo
— FOX SPORTS: NASCAR (@NASCARONFOX) August 11, 2014
Stewart has also withdrawn from the Aug. 16 Bob Newton Classic sprint car race at Plymouth (Indiana) Speedway.
Ward’s funeral service will take place at the Trainor Funeral Home, 143 Schuyler Street, Boonville, NY. Visitation is scheduled for Wednesday from 1 to 4 p.m. and 6 to 9 p.m. ET, with the funeral Thursday at 11 a.m.
