State investigators have determined a mechanical failure was to blame for a wreck that killed a man at Hartwell Speedway last month.
Paul Ballenger Jr., 58, of Royston, died when a driver lost control of his car and hit several spectators Saturday night, July 3. The wreck critically injured two others, including Ballenger’s 11-year-old nephew.
The incident prompted an investigation by the State Fire Marshal’s Office.
“The Hartwell Speedway investigation has been completed and it has been determined that mechanical failure occurred in the vehicle that caused the injuries,” a spokesperson for Commissioner King’s office tells Now Habersham.
Investigators checked the track to make sure it was up to code and also checked on the track’s permits as part of their probe. According to the commissioner’s office, “No arrests or charges are anticipated in this case.”
The Speedway was shut down following the accident for the investigation and repairs. It was scheduled to reopen on July 17, but the owners pushed it back so they could install “even more safety measures.”
Racetrack owners said they would notify the public when the track reopens. As of August 14, there have been no new updates.
