Kevin Ward Jr.'s family issues statement saying 'the matter is not at rest'

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Finally, a decision has been made on the issue between Tony Stewart and Kevin Ward Jr.

The world was shocked over an incident that rocked the NASCAR race. A lot mourned and watch in disbelief as fans as well as drivers alike could not grasp the idea when Stewart's car hit Ward and killed the driver instantly.

Stewart first bumped the victim's car and knocked it out. During his next round at the track, Ward climbed out of his car on the track to confront Stewart but then Stewart then struck the driver right after the victim left him car in order to confront him in the dirt track at Canandaigua (N.Y.) Motorsports Park.

Here is the family's statement:

"Our son got out of his car during caution when the race was suspended. All the other vehicles were reducing speed and not accelerating except for Stewart, who intentionally tried to intimidate Kevin by accelerating and sliding his car toward him, causing the tragedy. The focus should be on the actions of Mr. Stewart. This matter is not at rest and we will pursue all remedies in fairness to Kevin."

According to Ontario County District Attorney Michael Tantillo "those videos were examined in detail. They were enhanced. They were run through programs that allow the frames to be isolated. They were run at 75, 50 and 25 percent speed. They were overlaid with grids and data and they were pretty important piece of the evidence here. "

Adding that "the videos did not demonstrate any aberrational driving by Tony Stewart until the point of impact with Kevin Ward, at which his vehicle veered to the right, up the track as a result of the collision. Prior to that his course was pretty straight."

Shortly after the release of the decision, Stewart released a statement of his own saying:

"This has been the toughest and most emotional experience of my life, and it will stay with me forever. I'm very grateful for all the support I've received and continue to receive."

"I respect everything the District Attorney and Sheriff's Office did to thoroughly investigate this tragic accident. While the process was long and emotionally difficult, it allowed for all the facts of the accident to be identified and known."

"While much of the attention has been on me, it's important to remember a young man lost his life. Kevin Ward Jr.'s family and friends will always be in my thoughts and prayers."

NASCAR also issued a statement.

"There are no winners in tragedy. Our thoughts and prayers remain with the Kevin Ward Jr. family and Tony Stewart as they all cope with this tragic incident at Canandaigua Motorsports Park. This has been a difficult time for everyone involved and we have respected the local authorities responsible for reviewing this case."

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