A Sad Day for all RennTech.org Members

[Loren]

LOS ANGELES -- Two people were killed Thursday in a crash at California Speedway in Fontana.

A private car club was renting the speedway at the time of the crash.

A Porsche Carrera GT crashed into a retaining wall and came to rest on the track's infield. Authorities said two people were in the vehicle at the time of the crash.

One person was pronounced dead at the scene.

The second person in the car was transported by Mercy Air to Arrowhead Regional Medical Center. That person later died.

It is my understanding that the driver was going approximately 150-165 MPH down the front straight of the track when a Ferrari pulled out from the pits and into his driving path. He swerved to avoid a collision with the Ferrari and lost control of the CGT and then slammed into a wall.

It has been confirmed that the driver of the CGT was RennTech.org contributing member ben, lj (Bejamin Miles Keaton). Our thoughts and prayers go out to Ben's family... we have lost a great Porsche enthusiast and member... this is a very sad day. RIP Ben

[Scouser]

Absolutely awful news. Very sad indeed.

Edited June 4, 2005 by Scouser

[MannysTurbo]

I just read more on it...its stated that they were both wearing helmets, which of course at those speeds is only so useful. Its horrible when things like this occur.

[Butch C]

News of Bens passing saddens me. Enthusiasts can certainly relate, specially those among us who participate in club or similar events; and, those among us who occasinally drive at 9 or 10/10ths of our, and our cars capability. The tragic incident serves to remind us that the same thing can happen to anyone among us.

Therefore, in pursuing our love of cars, racing, and thrills, we should not forget to exercise caution.

My Condolences and prayers for Ben and his family.