Tony Stewart Hits and Kills Driver at Canandaigua Track

The racing world is mourning the loss of one of their own as Kevin Ward Jr. was hit by Tony Stewart and killed during a race in Canandaigua.

Ward Jr. and Stewart ran into each other during the Lucas Oil Empire Super Sprints race at Canandaigua Motorsports Park Saturday night. Ward is seen getting out of his car and pointing at another driver in video taken at the race, as Stewart runs into him, throwing his body 50 feet. Ward died at the hospital less than an hour later.

The Ontario County Sheriff’s office says Stewart 'has cooperated with the investigation, which is ongoing.'

Stewart’s spokesman Mike Arning released a statement:

'A tragic accident took place (Saturday) night during a sprint car race in which Tony Stewart was participating. Stewart was unhurt, but a fellow competitor lost his life. Our thoughts and prayers go out to his family and friends. We’re still attempting to sort through all the details, and we appreciate your understanding during this difficult time.’

Despite the tragedy, Stewart had still planned to race at Watkins Glen today.

BREAKING: Manager: Tony Stewart will race in #NASCAR event at Watkins Glen hours after driver hit, killed
— The Associated Press (@AP) August 10, 2014

Later came word, Stewart would NOT race.

From @StewartHaasRcng's VP of Competition: Tony Stewart will not race today at @WGI. @ReganSmith will drive the No. 14 car.
— NASCAR (@NASCAR) August 10, 2014

POLL: Is Stewart's Decision Too Little Too Late

Thoughts and prayers are being sent to Ward Jr. and his family on social media.

We will all loose someone in our time. When a loss is sudden and unexpected, the pain & sadness is suffocating. Prayers for the Ward family.
— Dale Earnhardt Jr. (@DaleJr) August 10, 2014

My god man... I didn't know Kevin Ward but I'm very sorry to hear about what happened. Thoughts and prayers to him and his family..
— Blake Shelton (@blakeshelton) August 10, 2014