WARNING: Although not shown in the footage, this incident involves the loss of life 

You may remember our post on this incident from December 2nd, and now video of the tragic accident has surfaced. As first reported by Dragzine Editor Andrew Wolf, Salinas Speedway was the host of the final round of the 2013 Modified Championship held on Wednesday, November 27th.

There, Juan Illanas was the pilot of the New Generation Racing “El Papa” RX-8 versus Jose Capestany and Sonic Racing’s Mazda RX-7 in the final round of the event.

We received information at the time that the El Papa car crossed the centerline around the 1/4 mile mark and clipped the Sonic Racing machine, sending both cars into the wall with tragic consequences.

Capestany smashed into and flew over the guardrail, striking spectator Ricky Colon and creating a debris field from which cameraman Edrick Rodriguez could not escape. In the other lane, the RX-8 flew into a series of barrel rolls before finally coming to a stop. 

Sadly, spectator Colon succumbed to his injuries, while Rodriquez remained in a hospital with a number of serious injuries. 

As you watch the video, you’ll see that the outcome could have been prevented, as the RX-8 was out of shape almost immediately upon launch, and the consequences were unimaginable.

Our thoughts and prayers continue to go out to Rodriguez, Capestany, and Illanas as they recover from their injuries, and to the family of Ricky Colon. Reports from Puerto Rico indicate that safety procedure changes are being considered at the facility and across Puerto Rico to prevent an incident like this in the future.

Video credit: TRS-PR.com