Bryan Clauson has died

The sad news was announced this Monday: Bryan Clauson, victim of an accident Saturday evening during the Belleville Midget Nationals race in Belleville, Kansas, died from his injuries.

The 27-year-old American pilot was rushed to Bryan Medical Center West hospital in Lincoln, Nebraska, and remained in “critical condition.” His family released the following statement.

“Last night, August 7, we said goodbye to our son, fiancé, friend, Bryan Clauson. He was surrounded by family and friends and we are grateful to have been able to be by his side in these final moments.

Bryan fought to the end with the same desire he demonstrated behind the wheel of every race car he took to Victory Lane. However, we were even more proud of the Bryan who took a moment to participate in a fan day, or who demonstrated his rare kindness to his friends, family and fans.

We would like to thank everyone who has expressed their concern and kept us in their prayers. We will never be able to truly thank you. We also want to thank the staff at Bryan Medical Center who have been fighting with Bryan since he arrived here early yesterday morning.

We know that our Bryan is also your Bryan and that you want to pay tribute to him. A service will be held at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway at a date and time to be announced soon. People can send contributions to the USAC fund website or send checks made payable to the USAC Benevolent Foundation. The address is 124 E Northfield Drive, Suite F #129, Brownsburg, IN 46112.

Thank you for being a part of our Bryan's life.

Lauren, Tim, Di, and Taylor »

Bryan Clauson had notably taken part in the Indianapolis 500 three times, including the last time this year in the colors of Jonathan Byrd's Racing. The Sacramento native had also driven in Nascar Xfinity Series on behalf of the Chip Ganassi team.

The entire AUTOhebdo editorial team sends its most sincere condolences to the family, friends and loved ones of Bryan Clauson.