NJ State Police And NHRA To Conduct Investigations Of The Accident
Jun 23, 2008
Kalitta Racing
Kalitta, 46, died from multiple injuries after his car went out of control in the fourth round of qualifying.
Kalitta’s Toyota Solara was traveling at about 300 mph when it burst into flames and then crashed and exploded seconds later.
The state police fatal accident unit also will investigate the crash, Sgt. Julian Castellanos said.
“We will look at the vehicle, the electronics, the conditions of the track and, in this case, we have the rare chance to study the (video) footage of the accident,” said Castellanos, adding that the unit also may examine toxicology results.
Michael Napp, the president and co-owner of Raceway Park, did not want to comment on the accident.
“It is under investigation and we don’t want to speculate,” Napp said. “We take track safety very seriously.”
The Napp family posted a message, calling Saturday a sad day in the world of drag racing.
“Today, everyone who is a drag racing fan is grateful to have been able to watch him compete on drag strips around the country,” the Napps said of Kalitta. “His accomplishments and inspiration will forever have shaped the motorsports world.”
