Fenech's family devastated after driver's fatal 320km/h crash
The family of Sam Fenech are "shattered" after the veteran Sydney drag racer was killed in a catastrophic 320km/h crash at a Queensland race meet.
Fenech's car flipped violently during a drag race at Willowbank Raceway on Saturday night in front of a shocked crowd.
The Chevrolet Camaro flew through the air and over safety barriers, striking a camera tower by the track, killing Fenech, 55, and putting a camera operator in hospital.
Sam Fenech was killed when his car flipped during a drag race at Willowbank Raceway. 9News
In a statement to 9News, Fenech's wife thanked everyone for an "outpouring of tributes" since the accident.
"To my dearest husband who was a great humble man his passion for racing is what made his life worthwhile," she said.
"We are obviously shattered and heart broken (sic) at his passing."
READ MORE: Driver fighting for life after car bursts into flames in Melbourne's north
Fenech was treated by paramedics at the scene but he died a short time later.
The camera operator was taken to Princess Alexandra Hospital, where they were treated for non-life threatening injuries.
The crash ended the race meet, with stunned spectators spilling out of the venue.
Isi Biancucci drag-raced with Fenech for two decades, and said he was crushed by his friend's sudden death.
The beginning of the race in which Sam Fenech was killed. Nine
Isi Biancucci drag-raced with Fenech for two decades. Nine
"It's absolutely gutting," he said.
"I have not slept all night.
"I watched the accident over 50 times.
Biancucci said his "heart goes out" to the Fenech family.
"We hope to get to the finish line, but we all know in the back of our minds something could go wrong one day."
Witnesses also shared their sadness online.
"I am still shaking from what I have just witnessed," one fan wrote on Facebook.
V8 Supercar driver Todd Hazelwood was among the crowd and posted on Twitter he had been left "absolutely lost for words".
"To witness this tragedy at Willowbank Raceway tonight is absolutely heartbreaking.
"My heart goes out to Sam's family, pitcrew, friends and supporters. Also wishing the cameraman a fast recovery."
Organiser Top Fuel Racing Australia issued a statement shortly after the crash.
"It is with great sadness that Top Fuel Racing Australia announces that Sam Fenech, driver of the Fabietti Racing Doorslammer, has succumbed to injuries suffered in a racing accident at Willowbank Raceway and passed away this evening," a spokesperson said.
"We send our love and support to the Fenech family and the whole team at Fabietti Racing.
The accident is under investigation by Queensland Police and other agencies.
The race meet ended immediately after the crash. Nine
Queensland Police are investigating the incident and asking the public to avoid the area around Champions Way, which is likely to experience traffic disruption as a result. Facebook
The International Hot Rod Association Australia echoed similar sentiments in a statement posted on their social media pages just minutes later.
Tributes soon poured in for the much-loved driver.
"Drag Racing Lost a wonderful man," one person wrote in a tribute on Facebook, alongside one of the final photos taken of Fenech, earlier on Saturday.
"Life is so bloody Short, hug your family extra tight tonight.
"To your Family, Maurice and Crew, we are so sorry. Nothing said could ever heal the pain you are going through but we all stand behind you."
Tributes began pouring in for the driver on social media after news of his death was confirmed by event organisers. Facebook
Sharing the same photo, another person wrote: "Drag racing has lost a true legend in the sport and motor industry."
Others paid tribute to his passion and skill.
"Sam, you lived life on the edge, and you certainly enjoyed life to the fullest," one fan wrote.
"One hell of a driver who will be missed.
"We know the risks and consequences of the sport we enjoy."
Share a tip-off, video or photo with us
