Scott Kalitta dies in tragic accident..

Kyl3 · 22-06-2008, 12:10 PM

Quote:

Funny Car driver Scott Kalitta was killed today in a fiery crash during a drag race at Old Bridge Township Raceway Park, race officials said.

Kalitta, 46, was pronounced dead at a hospital in Old Bridge after his car lost control during the fourth and final round of qualifying at the National Hot Rod Association Super Nationals, according to statement by the association.

Witnesses said Kalitta was speeding at an estimated 300 mph during the National Hot Rod Association Super Nationals when the engine of his Toyota Solara exploded in a ball of flames.

The driver was killed after he lost control of his vehicle," said Sgt. Julian Castellanos, a spokesman for the State Police.

Lynette Davis, a spokeswoman for Raritan Bay Medical Center in Old Bridge confirmed that Kalitta was brought to the hospital at 4:56 p.m., but she would not release further details pending the notification of family members.

Spectators at the track watched as Kalitta's car exploded, hit a sand trap, then vaulted over a protective catch fence. A slow-moving ambulance took the driver away.

Kalitta, 46, of Palmetto, Fla., was a two-time Top Fuel champion (1994-95) had 18 career victories, 17 of them in the Top Fuel class.

He began his racing career at Old Bridge Township Raceway Park in 1982.

His father, Connie Kalitta, the legendary driver/team owner known as "The Bounty Hunter," was his co-crew chief, along with Glenn Mikres. Kalitta's cousin, Doug Kalitta, compete sin the Top Fuel class.

Castellanos said that the event was being taped for ESPN, and police will review the tapes to determine what caused the accident.

If any of you follow drag racing, you will best remember Scott for holding the national Top Fuel record at WSID at the last international top fuel event where he went 4.51 @ 332mph

Rest in peace Scott :cry:

Video is here IF you can stomach it: http://youtube.com/watch?v=DziJdGwFQjU

Scott still holds the TF record at WSID from the internaional top fuel event in 2006 where he and Dave Grubnic competed against our local top fuel drivers..

Very very very sad day in drag racing :(