Police Initiate Urgent Inquiry Following Fatal ‘Chain Reaction’ Superbike Crash in Championship Race
Investigators have begun an extensive inquiry after the tragic deaths of two superbike racers involved in a “chain reaction” crash during a championship event.
Owen Jenner, 21, and Shane Richardson, 29, were involved in the devastating incident that led to 11 riders colliding at the opening turn of the race at Oulton Park.
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The event in Cheshire has been canceled, with medical personnel dispatched to the scene immediately.
Jenner was transported to the circuit’s medical facility, where resuscitation efforts continued, but he unfortunately succumbed to a “catastrophic head injury,” according to the organizers.
Similarly, Richardson suffered “severe chest injuries” and tragically passed away while being taken to Royal Stoke University Hospital, as noted by the event organizers.
Cheshire Police have announced they are investigating the two fatalities “on behalf of the coroner.”
British racer Jenner was racing with Rapid Honda, while New Zealand’s Richardson was associated with Astro-JJR Hippo Suzuki.
British Superbike (BSB) reported that another racer, Tom Tunstall, 47, sustained “significant injuries.”
Tunstall received immediate medical attention at the scene before being taken to the medical facility.
He was subsequently transferred to Royal Stoke University Hospital with “serious back and abdominal injuries,” as detailed by BSB.
Organizers indicated that five additional riders were treated at the medical center for minor injuries, but none required hospitalization.
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Cheshire Police stated: “We are conducting an investigation into two deaths on behalf of the coroner following a multiple collision at Oulton Park this afternoon.
“Emergency services arrived promptly at the scene following the collision, which resulted in two riders suffering fatal injuries, and another sustaining severe injuries.
“The Motorcycle Circuit Racing Control Board and MotorSport Vision Racing are reviewing the complete circumstances of the incident in collaboration with the Coroner and Cheshire Police.”
This event marked the commencement of this year’s British Superbikes season.
Superbikes are highly tuned machines, noted by BSB for reaching speeds of up to 200bhp.
The series consists of eight rounds, followed by three additional “showdown” events.
Many fans have taken to social media to express their condolences for Jenner and Richardson.
One user wrote: “I am genuinely shocked. My thoughts go out to all those affected: the riders, teams, families, marshals, medics, and onlookers.”
Another added: “My thoughts and prayers are with Owen and Shane’s families—may they find solace.”
Another remarked: “A heartbreaking day for our sport. My heart goes out to the families of both Owen Jenner and Shane Richardson.
“Our sport can be unforgiving, yet our community is supportive. Like those before them, they will never be forgotten. Rest in peace.”
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