In a media briefing this afternoon, Ontario County (N.Y.) Sheriff Philip Povero said that the investigation into Saturday’s fatal sprint car crash that involved NASCAR driver Tony Stewart and killed Kevin Ward Jr. may continue for at least two more weeks.
Before reading from a prepared statement, Povero said that he would not take any questions from the assembled media.
He then read the statement, which goes as follows:
“The investigation into the death of Kevin Ward Jr., of Lewis County, is ongoing and is expected to continue for at least another two weeks or more. Investigators continue to seek witnesses, gather evidence, and develop the racetrack crash reconstruction.
“However, it would be inappropriate to discuss details or findings of the investigation with the media at this time. I would like to thank everyone for their cooperation as the Ontario County Office of Sheriff continues this investigation, and for having patience as we conduct a thorough review of all the relevant facts involving this tragic crash.
“When the investigation is completed, we will meet with members of the Ontario County District Attorney’s Office and discuss with them all aspects of the investigation into the crash that occurred on Aug. 9, 2014 at the Canandaigua [Motorsports Park].
“At that time, more information relating to any determinations that have been made may be released. In closing, on behalf of the Ontario County Office of Sheriff, we thank all of you for your patience, and our thoughts and prayers continue to be with the family of Kevin Ward Jr.”
In yesterday’s media briefing, Povero stated – as he did on Sunday – that as of now, there was no evidence of criminal intent from any party involved in Saturday’s incident.
He also confirmed Ward’s cause of death as “massive blunt trauma” per the county’s coroner. Visitation for Ward is scheduled for tomorrow at a funeral home in Boonville, New York; his funeral is Thursday.
