On Sunday, October 16, 2011, stunned IndyCar racing fans watched in horror as one of the worst crashes in recent history unfolded at the Las Vegas Motor Speedway. This 15-car accident resulted in driver Dan Wheldon losing his life. Dan Wheldon, 33, was driving the No. 77 car when a wreck unfolded in front of him. There was no way he could have avoided the crash that cost him his life.
After the accident, fans watched as track officials raced to the scene and began to remove the drivers from their cars. It quickly became clear that they were having issues getting Dan out of his car. One by one the drivers walked away or were helped off the track, and all the while a group of workers were swarming around Dan. No one knew what exactly what was happening with Dan, but everyone watching had a feeling it wasn’t a good sign.
Over the next two hours, Dan was treated on the scene and airlifted via helicopter to University Medical Center. The other drivers and the world held their breath waiting to learn about Dan’s condition. There was a driver’s meeting held, after which many drivers were seen sobbing and in prayer. Fans pretty much knew at this point that Dan was in some serious trouble.
A short while after the driver’s meeting, IndyCar CEO Randy Bernard held a press conference. His statement was brief, but life changing for many. Here is what Randy Bernard told the world:
“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.”
He went on to say that the remaining 19 drivers would do a five-lap salute to Dan.
Before the announcement of Dan’s death, many of the drivers spoke to reporters and expressed that they had, had concerns about safety before the race. They said that having a large 34-car field on a 1.5 mile oval track was a dangerous situation. Sadly, it seems that they were right.
Dan Wheldon had won the famed Indy 500 twice, with his most recent win being this year. He is survived by his wife, Susie, and two children, 2-year-old Sebastian, and 8-month-old Oliver.