Driver in crash at Lernerville Speedway, identified as Chicora man, dies

The driver injured in a crash at Lernerville Speedway on Sunday has died. A family member and the Speedway confirmed in social media posts that he was Shane Nolan of Chicora.

“Lernerville Speedway and the Tomson family are deeply saddened by the passing of Shane Nolan, a valued member of our racing community,” the speedway said. “We ask everyone to honor him and his family by respecting their wish for privacy during this time.”

The dirt road, owned by local company Tomson Scrap Metal, was the site of the Geibel Fest Day of Destruction, a day-long event that featured a demolition derby, a truck-boat and trailer race and other competitions. It was the final event of the year for the Buffalo Township Speedway.

Nolan crashed during the 100-lap enduro race, Lernerville consultant Anthony Mariani previously told TribLive.

According to a Butler County 911 dispatcher, emergency crews were dispatched just after 2:30 p.m. Nolan was then transported by helicopter to an area hospital where he later died.

According to his myracepass.com profile, it was Nolan's fourth Enduro of the year at the speedway. His best result came on September 21st when he finished 4th.

In a Facebook post, Shane Nolan's wife Amanda thanked the community for their support and asked for privacy at this time.

“Please respect us all and let us get through the next few days in peace,” she said on social media. “We will share more information when we have it and are ready to do so.”

Sunday wasn't the first time a driver died or was seriously injured after a crash in Lernerville.

In 2012, a driver was flown to a hospital after a serious accident, where, according to witnesses, he briefly lost consciousness. In 2015, driver William Henry of Gilpin died in a car accident after hitting a wall and flipping his car.