IRWINDALE, CA -- Casey Diemert, a sprint car driver for the United States Auto Club, was killed today in a practice accident at Irwindale Speedway.

The 23-year-old Diemert, from Roseburg, Oregon, was practicing for today's USAC Western Sprint Car Series when the accident occurred. He was transported by helicopter to Arcadia Methodist Hospital, where he died at 2:52 p.m. PST.

"Our sympathies go out to his family," Irwindale Speedway president Ray Wilkings said.

Racing for the USAC Coors Light Silver Bullet Series, Diemert finished 29th at the U.S. Tobacco Company Copper World Classic at Phoenix International Raceway February 7.

Posted: 3/27/99