13-year-old rider Peter Lenz dies in crash

13-year-old Peter Lenz died of traumatic injuries incurred this morning at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway after apparently being struck by another rider.

Local media described the crash and ensuing attempts to stabilize Lenz:

Peter Lenz crashed during the warm-up lap of a 250cc race ahead of the Red Bull Indianapolis GP and appeared to be run over by Xavier Zayat of Flushing , N.Y. Medical workers placed Lenz in a neck brace, put him on a stretcher and appeared to be doing chest compressions.

Lenz, of Vancouver, Washington, had been racing since the age of five. He had just returned to racing after he was sidelined by injuries at the age of 11. Twitter reports citing the Associated Press say Lenz’s death was confirmed by the local county coroner, and Indystar.com is also reporting the young rider’s death. Two messages about Lenz’s death were posted on his Facebook fan page:

Peter Lenz died today after suffering fatal injuries during a crash of the warm-up lap at Indy today. He is survived by his parents and two sisters. He is dearly missed.

Peter passed away early this morning when he was apparently struck by another rider. He passed doing what he loved and had his go fast face on as he pulled onto the track. The world lost one of its brightest lights today. God Bless Peter and the other rider involved. #45 is on another road we can only hope to reach. Miss you kiddo. – Dad

Fellow rider Jesse Masterpool died in a crash at the age of 14 during the Lake Whitney Amateur National back in March.