(6-21-08)

ENGLISHTOWN, N.J. (AP) - Scott Kalitta died Saturday when his
Funny Car crashed and burst into flames during qualifying for the
Lucas Oil NHRA SuperNationals at Old Bridge Township Raceway Park.
State police confirmed that the 46-year-old Kalitta, a two-time
Top Fuel champion who had 18 career victories, was killed in the
accident.
Witnesses told The Star-Ledger of Newark that Kalitta's Toyota
Solara was traveling at an estimated speed of 300 mph when the
crash occurred.
The Palmetto, Fla., resident started his career at Old Bridge
Township Raceway Park in 1982. His father, Connie Kalitta, was a
longtime driver and team owner known as "The Bounty Hunter," and
his cousin, Doug Kalitta, also drives competitively.

(Copyright 2008 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)