Skip to Content

Kevin Ward Jr., the 20-year-old racing prospect killed in an accident by NASCAR star Tony Stewart, is being mourned across his native New York State and beyond.

While no criminal investigation into Stewart’s conduct is underway, Ward’s relatives and friends are taking Tony to task for his actions in the wake of the tragedy.

The young driver’s aunt posted to Facebook Sunday after the crash, “Thanks for thinking of our family [Tony] Stewart when you decided to be a d!ck!”

The Hollywood Gossip Logo

She called her late nephew “one of a kind, a true race car driver, a p!ss head and a sweetie all in one, a young man who will be truly missed by many!”

Kevin Ward’s parents, who were reportedly in the stands watching the race, were a bit more diplomatic, according to local ABC affiliate WHAM:

"We appreciate the prayers and support we are receiving from the community, but we need time to grieve and wrap our heads around all of this."

As previously reported, in an incident filmed by a fan, Tony Stewart killed Kevin Ward Jr. accidentally on the race track this weekend in Canandaigua, N.Y.

His car swiped Ward’s, which spun out of control, at which point Kevin exited his car and began roaming the track on foot, pointing at Stewart. Then tragedy struck.

 

When he approached closely, Stewart’s car fishtailed and Ward was struck, with an onlooker bellowing in horror, “Tony Stewart hit that guy!”

Ontario County Sheriff’s officials say that they have yet to uncover any criminal intentions on Stewart’s part, no matter the unthinkable result that took place.

Empire Super Sprints race director and president Chuck Miller said that there was “no history with these two drivers,” and called this a tragic accident.

He chalked it up to “the competitive nature of the game and the drivers around it … any time Tony has raced with us, Kevin also raced. Tony’s been good for us."

The 43-year-old Stewart pulled out of Sunday’s race, saying, “There aren’t words to describe the sadness I feel about the accident that took the life of Kevin Ward Jr.”

“It’s a very emotional time for all involved."

"It is the reason I’ve decided not to participate in today’s race at Watkins Glen. My thoughts and prayers are with his family, friends and everyone affected by this tragedy.”