CANANDAIGUA - While the investigation into the death of dirt-track car racer Kevin Ward Jr. continues, Ontario County Sheriff Philip Povero said there still is nothing to suggest a crime was committed by Tony Stewart.
Ward was killed by "massive blunt-force trauma," according to autopsy results, when he exited his car and was struck by Stewart's car during a Sprint car race on Saturday night at Canandaigua Motorsports Park.
"No facts exist that support any criminal behavior or conduct, or any probable cause of a criminal act," Povero said Monday evening at a news briefing.
He said that investigators continue to examine evidence collected from the track, as well as at least two videos from spectators.
Povero said there is no timetable for release of final findings and that just because no charges have been filed, "it doesn't mean conclusions have been made."
The sheriff said Ontario County Coroner Kevin Henderson and District Attorney R. Michael Tantillo requested that no other information from the autopsy be released.
When asked if that could suggest there were other findings by the medical examiner, Povero reiterated that nothing has been revealed "to support criminal behavior by anyone involved."
Stewart has been cooperative, Povero said. "Mr. Stewart and his representatives continue to be of assistance when necessary."
Funeral arrangements for Ward were finalized on Monday. Calling hours will be on Wednesday, from noon to 4 p.m. and 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. at the
(about 25 miles north of Rome).
The funeral will be at 11 a.m. Thursday at South Lewis Senior High School in Turin. Funeral director Carl Trainor said a large venue was necessary to accommodate what is expected to be a large crowd. Ward is a 2012 graduate of South Lewis Senior High.
KEVINO@DemocratandChronicle.com
