Sheriff says Tony Stewart inquiry will last at least two more weeks

The investigation into the incident in which Tony Stewart’s car struck and killed another driver who was on foot during a race in upstate New York will last at least an additional two weeks, the investigating sheriff said Tuesday.

“Investigators continue to see witnesses, gather evidence and develop the racetrack crash reconstruction” of the incident in which 20-year-old Kevin Ward Jr. died Saturday night, Ontario County (N.Y.) Sheriff Philip Povero said in a statement.

“However, it would be inappropriate to discuss details or findings of the investigation with the media at this time,” Povero said.

Povero said Monday that no criminal charges were pending against Stewart, the three-time NASCAR champion, but that the investigation was continuing.

During a non-NASCAR, sprint-car race at Canandaigua Motorsports Park, a half-mile dirt track, the two drivers’ cars made contact and Ward’s car crashed, bringing out a caution period.

As captured on an amateur video, Ward then climbed from his car, walked on the track, appeared to gesture in anger toward Stewart and then was struck by Stewart’s car as he circled back around.

Ward died of massive blunt trauma to the head even though he was wearing his helmet, Povero said. Ward’s funeral is scheduled for Thursday in Turin, N.Y.

Povero said Tuesday that when his investigation is completed, “we will meet with members of the Ontario County district attorney’s office and discuss with them all aspects of the investigation.”