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| Press Release |
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SCRA SADDEN BY TRAGIC LOSS |
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PERRIS, CA, APRIL 26, 2003 - Tragedy hit the Perris Auto Speedway
Saturday with the deaths of two of the most revered people within the Sprint Car Racing Association (SCRA) community. Paul and Helen Bagley, Hesperia, were killed after being struck by the car driven by Jack DeArmond, Jr. (Corona). DeArmond's car made contact with another car at the start of the B-Main Event and flipped high into the air, clearing the infield catch-fence before striking the Bagleys. Paul, 74, was pronounced dead at the scene. Helen, 72, later died at Riverside County Regional Medical Center. DeArmond was also transported to the hospital with possible back and neck injuries. "This is the saddest day in SCRA history," said SCRA President Ron Shuman. "The world lost two wonderful people and there are no words to describe the grief so many people are feeling today. Paul and Helen were two of the most remarkable people I have ever met. They were loving and compassionate people who were, and will always, be admired by the entire racing community. Their absence will leave a void that will never be filled." Paul and Helen's son Jeff lost his life in 1989 driving a sprint car at Ascot Park (Gardena). Since his death, Paul and Helen remained actively involved in sprint car racing by sponsoring cars and raising money for various races. One of the races they donated and raised money for was a race held annually at Ventura Raceway honoring their son's memory. Ironically, this year's Jeff Bagley Classic is scheduled for next Saturday (May 3rd). The remainder of the evening's racing program was postponed following the accident. No announcement has been made as to when the balance of the program will be rescheduled. |
