Sheriff's office: Investigation into death of driver Kevin Ward Jr. ongoing

The Ontario County, N.Y., Sheriff's office released a statement Tuesday on the investigation into the dirt track crash that killed 20-year-old driver Kevin Ward

The Ontario County, N.Y., Sheriff's office released a statement Tuesday on the investigation into the dirt track crash that killed 20-year-old driver Kevin Ward Jr.

The expectation is that the investigation will continue for at least another two weeks.

"The investigation into the death of Kevin Ward, Jr., of Lewis County, N.Y., is ongoing and is expected to continue for at least another two weeks or more. Investigators continue to seek witnesses, gather evidence, and develop the racetrack crash reconstruction. However, it would be inappropriate to discuss details or findings of the investigation with the media at this time. I would like to thank everyone for their cooperation as the Ontario County Office of Sheriff continues this investigation and for having patience as we conduct a thorough review of all of the relevant facts involving this tragic accident. When the investigation is completed, we will meet with members of the Ontario County District Attorney’s Office and discuss with them all aspects of the investigation into the crash that occurred on August 9, 2014 at the Canandaigua Speedway. At that time, more information relating to any determinations that have been made may be released. In closing, on behalf of the Ontario County Office of Sheriff, our thoughts and prayers continue to be with the family of Kevin Ward, Jr."

Ward was struck by a car driven by NASCAR star Tony Stewart during a dirt track race in upstate New York on Saturday.

Stewart pulled out of Sunday's Sprint Cup race at Watkins Glen andwill not participate in a planned dirt track race in Indiana on Saturday, the day before a Sprint Cup race in Michigan. 

More: Stewart faces several possible legal consequences after fatal accident

Stewart is not facing any charges over the incident at this time. 

Police say they have found no evidence of criminal intent, but charges remain a possibility.

Stewart has yet to announce whether he will race at Michigan on Sunday. There are 13 more races after that, including Bristol, Tenn., on Aug. 23 and Atlanta on Aug. 31. 

More: Who was Kevin Ward Jr.?

SI VAULT: Tony Stewart's Road Rage (10/21/02)

- Chris Johnson

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