NHRA driver dies from severe blunt force injuries

Published Jul. 13, 2010 12:17 a.m. ET

foxsports

The King County Medical Examiner says an NHRA driver who crashed after crossing the finish line died of severe injuries to his head, neck and torso.

Mark Niver, 60, of Phoenix, died Sunday at the NHRA Northwest Nationals. He was competing in the Top Alcohol dragster class in the NHRA Lucas Oil Drag Racing series. The parachutes on his car ripped away after they were deployed, and Niver couldn't stop his dragster before it slammed into the protective netting at the end of the runway.

According to the medical examiner's report Monday, Niver suffered severe injuries to his spinal cord, aorta, esophagus, trachea and ribs. His death was ruled an accident.

A spokesman for the King County Sheriff's Office says it's still investigating.

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