Race Car Runs Off Calif. Track, Kills Two

Sprint cars are below NASCAR and are small, high-powered cars that normally race on short dirt tracks

A race car at the Marysville Raceway Park about 40 miles north of Sacramento lost control and killed two people on pit row Saturday night, the Yuba County Sheriff's Department reported.

The Appeal-Democrat said a 68-year-old man and a 14-year-old boy died after being hit by the sprint car. 

There were no other reported injuries. 

A venue promoter told the paper the car left the track and crashed into pit row. This happened during a warm up lap prior to the actual race. Chase Johnson, 17, was reportedly going 90 mph and did not make a proper turn. 

"There must have been a mechanical problem," the announcer of the race said. "The car didn't slow down." 

Track officials said on the Facebook page: "Our thoughts and deepest prayers go out to everyone. Out of respect we will not elaborate on details. We ask everyone to respect each other and the families."

Marysville Raceway Park was hosting Round 1 of the Hoosier Tire California Sprint Car Civil War Series this weekend. Organizers canceled the event shortly after the incident.

Sprint cars are small, high-powered cars that usually run on short dirt ovals. The races serve as a path for drivers to make it to NASCAR.

Less than a month ago, another crash at Daytona International Speedway on Feb. 23 left at least 30 fans.

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