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Man hurt in demolition derby dies

By Howard B. Owens

(UPDATED 9:40 p.m.)

David W. Connors, the Livonia man injured in an accident at the demolition derby on Saturday, has died.

The Sheriff's Office confirmed his death this afternoon. He was prounced dead at 1:31 p.m. at Strong Memorial Hospital, according to a release issued late this evening.

Connors, 64, was a safety official at the demolition derby and was on the derby's track when one car struck another, spinning the second car around violently about 180 degrees. The back of the second vehicle then struck Connors.

The driver of the mini-van that struck Connors has been identified as Eric Weis, 27, of Batavia.

The accident occurred about 8:21 p.m. Saturday.

As soon as Connors was hit, crews from the Stafford and Elba fire departments as well as Batavia ambulance personnel jumped over a concrete barrier from where they were standing and went to his aid. A yellow vinyl barrier was erected around him while emergency personnel tended to him. 

He was quickly transported via ground ambulance to UMMC and later transferred to Strong Memorial Hospital in Rochester where, as of about 10 a.m. this morning, he was still listed in guarded condition.

Karen Miconi

My daughter Jesse and her boyfrind were pretty close, and she is still upset. They could see his face, as he flew through the air. It was just aweful I guess. I cant believe they still went on with the derby. The guy who hit him was visibly upset, but went on and finished. The name of his van was something like the death dealer.. Crazy
To the family, We are truely sorry. I think the rainbow over the fair was his spirit. Rest in Peace my friend....The Lord has called you to Heaven..

Jul 27, 2009, 9:16pm Permalink
Teresa Spink

I was there as well, this is a tragic accident, I have helped out at the fair from the time I can remember with my grandparents. My thoughts and prayers is with him and is family

Jul 28, 2009, 11:42am Permalink

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