“Praying for everyone”: Fans react as tragedy falls during Sprint Car race at Jacksonville Speedway

Tragedy struck during the 410 Wing Sprints at the Jacksonville Speedway, claiming the life of a 65-year-old. During the 10-lap dash, a sprint car spun out wrecking into two individuals at the infield.

The Heat 1 race comprising eight sprint cars was battling on the 1/4-mile dirt track when a sudden apparent malfunction with the 410-winged sprint car's torque led to a devastating incident. The stuck torque led to the car losing control and spinning out on the track, brutally hitting several people.

Momentarily after the incident, Jacksonville Police and Life Star Emergency Medical Services reported to the Morgan County Fairgrounds to investigate the report of the tragic mishap. One of them was a 65-year-old man who was declared dead by the Morgan County Coroner, while another was seriously injured.

Upon learning of the devastating turnaround of events at Jacksonville, the fanbase sent their prayers to the grieving parties.

"Praying for everyone involved in the jacksonville speedway incident 😥🙏🙏," one fan wrote.

"Everyone please keep this gentlemen friends and family in your thoughts & prayers this evening 🙏," another fan added.

"Horrible tragic event just happened at the dirt track Jacksonville Speedway in Illinois, please pray for everyone involved 💔💔💔," one fan commented.

"Thoughts and prayers with everyone at Jacksonville speedway tonight!" another fan concurred.

This fan was caught off guard upon learning about the 'scary' incident and shared their heartfelt message.

"Holy shit man. If what I heard is true at Jacksonville Speedway. I hope people are ok, man that is some very scary stuff that can happen, omg 😢🙏🙏🙏," the fan wrote.

Macon Speedway also sent their wishes, writing.

"From all of us at Macon Speedway, we’re sending our best wishes and prayers to everyone at Jacksonville Speedway. Our racing family is strong, and we’re thinking of you during this time.," they added.

Jacksonville Speedway's victim autopsy scheduled for Monday

Shortly after the sprint car lost control, injuring several people including two track officials and killing one, all the following races slated on the dirt track were canceled. Authorities were called to investigate how the person died.

So far, the name of the deceased hasn't been released as the next of kin is yet to be notified of the tragedy. Per the Morgan County Coroner's Office, an autopsy has been scheduled for Monday, and they have no further details to share about the Jacksonville incident.