Autoblog

Jalopnik reports that one of the competitors at the 24 Hours of LeMons race at Altamont has tragically died in an accident on the course. At present, the identity of the victim, who was driving the #39 Volvo 242 Turbo pictured above, has not been released. According to Jalopnik's Murilee Martin, who is reporting on-site from LeMons and also competing in the event, the #39 car collided with a wall at high speed, and rescue personnel cut off its roof to extract the driver. Following the incident, LeMons organizers reportedly called off the rest of Saturday's racing. We don't know what's planned for Sunday, and recommend you check Jalopnik for updates. Autoblog extends its heartfelt condolences and prayers to the fallen racer's family, friends and teammates.

UPDATE: It has now been made known that the driver who passed away is Mr. Court Summerfield, age 47, of Alameda, CA. Mr. Summerfield reportedly died of a heart attack at the wheel of the car, which CHP determined to be mechanically sound. Again, we extend our deepest condolences to Mr. Summerfield's wife, Vickie, and their family and friends.

UPDATE 2: Murilee shares some final thoughts.

[Sources: Jalopnik, San Francisco Chronicle, The Truth About Cars]