UPDATE: Driver of car in Vernamfield drag-racing tragedy interviewed by cops
CLARENDON, Jamaica— Rory Smith, the 41-year-old driver of the white Toyota Supra involved in the freak drag-racing tragedy at the Vernamfield Aerodrome on Sunday, was interviewed by police investigators on Monday for his role in the fateful accident that claimed the life of a woman.
Smith has retained the services of prominent attorney-at-law, Christopher Townsend, who accompanied him to the interview.
“We went on Monday and we gave our statement to the police. He maintains that he has been a race driver for over 20 years and from all accounts, it appears that the track might have been faulty as his car was properly certified for racing by the authorities,” Townsend said.
“At this stage, he is not a suspect for any criminal offence,” he added.
Through his attorney, Smith offered his heartfelt condolences to the family of the young woman who was killed in the freak tragedy. Smith was “shaken up” but not seriously injured during the accident as he was treated and sent home.
A woman died on Sunday night while undergoing surgery at May Pen Hospital when one of the drag vehicles veered off the track and ran into the spectators.
READ: WATCH: Four injured after drag racer crashes into crowd at Vernamfield
Several other spectators were injured at the event which was being staged at the airstrip.
OBSERVER ONLINE is aware that there were concerns about whether or not the meet should have been held after individuals released a video disclosing that there was more than 50 gallons of oil on the airstrip on Saturday.
The event triggered a review of staging protocols by the Airports Authority of Jamaica, which could strengthen qualification criteria before future event access is approved.