Police: Rider in fatal crash at speedway may have been drinking | News

CONCORD - Two men who died when their motorcycles crashed into each other on the track at Charlotte Motor Speedway just moments after the end of a Vietnam Veterans Homecoming celebration may have been drinking, according to a report released by Concord Police.

According to the report, Alan Richard Mockus, age 66, from Alto, Georgia and Thomas Franklin Hollingsworth, age 71, from Piedmont, South Carolina died in the crash.  A third victim,   Deborah Lynn Mockus, age 56, also from Alto, Georgia remains hospitalized. 

The Concord Police Department hreleased the crash report Tuesday afternoon.  It was based on eyewitness statements and physical evidence. Among the findings: the motorcycle operated by Alan Mockus and carrying Deborah Mockus was traveling from the area of turn 1.  The motorcycle operated by Thomas Hollingsworth was traveling from the area of turn 2.  Both were on the paved portion of the track.  The motorcycles collided head-on in the area between the turns, on the lower portion of the track. 

The report indicates that there is initial evidence of alcohol use by at least one of the operators (Mockus) involved in the collision, but tests are being conducted for both. 

Other than the results of toxicology tests from the State Medical Examiner’s Office, the report is believed complete to the extent of police statutory authority and no further reports are expected. 

Organizers told WBTV that motorcycle riders had been told to keep bikes on the track apron and kept at low speed.

Charlotte Motor Speedway spopkesman Scott Cooper issued the following statement on Monday:

"We regret the unfortunate loss of life at the end of a great day of celebration for our Vietnam Veterans.  We are cooperating fully with the Concord Police Department investigation. From our initial review, it appears that proper safety procedures regarding the motorcycle procession entry and exit were in place. Unfortunately, one reckless incident brought about a sad ending to an otherwise wonderful day of tribute for American heroes.  Our most sincere, heartfelt condolences go out to the families touched by this accident."