The truck racer who crashed and suffered critical injuries during a “vehicle-to-vehicle contact” event at the Isanti County Fair grandstand last week has died, his employer announced.
Joshua Wines, 28, of Braham, Minn., “fought courageously in the hospital after being airlifted from the scene, but his injuries were ultimately too severe,” read a posting on an online fundraising page started on behalf of his wife.
Long Shot Trucking, of Hugo, said in the posting that the company “is rallying behind one of our own — Josh Wines, a dedicated driver, husband, and friend."
Wines and his wife, Kayla Wines, were married in October and preparing to go on their honeymoon soon. However, “instead of celebrating their future, she is faced with unimaginable loss and the emotional and financial burdens that follow,” the posting continued.
County Sheriff Wayne Seiberlich said Sunday that his office is leading the investigation into the circumstances of the crash.
“At this time, this is not a criminal investigation,” Seiberlich said. “We will consult with our County Attorney’s Office Monday.”
The sheriff pointed out that “this event was designed around speed and vehicle-to-vehicle contact and occurred on private property. Drivers signed waivers to participate.”
Thursday evening’s scheduled grandstand event in Cambridge was called “Night of Destruction,” where vehicles race around a dirt track for a trophy and prize money. The vehicles sometimes collide, but fair rules prohibit intentionally hitting other vehicles.
