The racing community was hit with tragic news on Friday night following the report that a man was struck by a race car and killed at Jacksonville Speedway in Jacksonville, Illinois. 

A 65-year-old man, identified Saturday morning as Ralph A. Willhite of Jacksonville, was struck by a 410 Sprint Car that had lost control and entered the infield at a high rate of speed. Willhite was declared deceased at the scene by the Morgan County Coroners Office.

The following statement was posted by the Morgan County Coroners Office on Facebook: 

One person died in an accident at the Jacksonville Speedway on Friday, June 28, 2024.

Ralph A. Willhite, 65, of Jacksonville,  was in the infield when struck by a 410-winged sprint car that had lost control. He was declared deceased at the scene by Morgan County Coroner Marcy Patterson.

An autopsy is scheduled for Monday.

According to multiple local media reports, at least one other individual was transported to a nearby hospital with serious injuries. 

Following initial reports on Friday night, the racing community quickly came together to offer thoughts to those impacted by the tragedy. 

Dirt Late Model star Brandon Sheppard, who grew up 20 minutes from Jacksonville Speedway, issued the following statement on his Facebook page: 

"Sending love & prayers back home to Jacksonville Speedway. As many of you are aware, there was an accident at the track tonight - while many are wondering who, what, when, where & why. STOP & just pray for those affected by this tragedy."

This story will be updated if and when more information becomes available.