Las Vegas, Nevada—(ENEWSPF)—October 16, 2011. English auto racing drive Daniel Wheldon died today as a result of a 15-car accident during lap 11 of the 2011 IZOD IndyCar Series season finale held at Las Vegas Motor Speedway. Wheldon was extricated from his car and airlifted to University Medical Center with what was described as “serious injuries.”
Several hours later, IndyCar CEO Randy Bernard said, “IndyCar is very sad to announce that Dan Wheldon has passed away from unsurvivable injuries. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family today. IndyCar, its drivers and owners, have decided to end the race.”
In his honor, drivers took part in a five-lap salute around the oval.
Wheldon was the 2005 Indy Racing League IndyCar Series champion, and winner of the Indianapolis 500 in 2005 and 2011.
Wheldon who resided in St. Petersburg, Florida is survived by wife Susie and two young boys. He was 33 years old.
