Violent Crash Stopped NHRA Action at Pomona

Violent Crash Stopped NHRA Action at PomonaIn-N-Out Burger Pomona Dragstrip

The NHRA halted racing late Saturday at the Lucas Oil Winternationals at In-N-Out Burger Pomona Dragstrip in the aftermath of Top Alcohol Dragster driver James Stevens’ vicious accident during Round 1 of eliminations.

According to his daughter Jess Hampton via a late Saturday Facebook post, Stevens, of Gothenburg, Nebraska, is scheduled to undergo surgery Sunday for a variety of injuries.

“My dad James is pretty banged up. Sounds like he’s got a broken forearm, broken left wrist, broke his C-7 [vertebra], bruised lung, rib fractures, and possible broken back (again). If you didn’t know, he wrecked at this very same track in 2019. He is in a lot of pain, so please pray for healing and comfort. He will have surgery tomorrow.”

Stevens was racing in the right lane opposite Garrett Bateman, and his Performance Truck and Trailer Dragster got sideways and hit timing cones as it crossed the center line. The car turned on its side and slammed into and over the right-side guard wall, spraying parts in all directions.

The NHRA issued a statement about 40 minutes later Saturday night that said, “Stevens exited the car and was alert and was examined onsite by NHRA Chief Medical Officer Dr. [Phil] Surface before being transported to a local medical facility.”