Third rider involved in ‘catastrophic’ British Superbikes crash that killed two is in ‘serious’ condition after breaking bone in neck
An update on the condition of the seriously injured motorcyclist involved in 'catastrophic' 11-bike collision, which claimed the lives of two men, has been released.
Yesterday (5 May) a Quattro Group British Supersport Championship race was cancelled after a horrific 'chain reaction' crash killed riders Owen Jenner, 21, and Shane Richardson, 29 at Oulton Park in Cheshire. British Superbikes had also revealed that a third rider, 47-year-old Tom Tunstall, was hospitalised with severe injuries.
BSB has now shared an update on the condition of Tunstall, revealing via Instagram that he'd suffered from a broken bone in his neck and was in a serious but stable condition.
"We can confirm that Tom Tunstall has sustained a broken bone in his neck and is currently under the care of a team of specialists at the Royal Stoke Hospital," BSB wrote.
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"While his condition is serious, he is stable and receiving the best possible treatment. Doctors are closely monitoring his progress and will determine in the coming days whether surgery will be necessary.
"At this time, a slow but hopefully full recovery is expected."
It was confirmed yesterday that Jenner had suffered a 'catastrophic head injury' and passed away after receiving trackside treatment before being moved to the circuit medical centre.
Meanwhile, Richardson had sustained 'severe chest injuries' and passed away while being transported to to Royal Stoke University Hospital prior to his arrival.
Five other riders involved in the horror collision received medical attention 'minor injuries' but were not transferred to hospital, while three men came away from the incident uninjured.
Cheshire Constabulary has since confirmed that a joint investigation with the Coroner's Office, Motor Sport Vision Racing and the Motorcycle Circuit Racing Control Board will now take place.
"Police are investigating two deaths on behalf of the coroner following a multiple collision at Oulton Park this afternoon," a statement from Cheshire Police read.
"Emergency services were called to the scene following the collision which resulted in two riders being fatally injured and another with serious injuries."
Tributes to Jenner and Richardson have since been shared online, alongside hopes for Tunstall's recovery.
The team are shocked and devastated that Owen sadly lost his life as a result of this. All our focus and support right now goes to Emma, Mick, Sam, Tony and family," wrote Jenner's racing team Rapid Honda on Instagram.
"Our thoughts and prayers are also with Shane Richardson and his family at this difficult time. We are also thinking of Tom Tunstall and his family whilst he continues to receive medical care."
"The team at Whites are extremely saddened by the news of @shanerichardson28's passing, early this morning. Shane was involved in an 11-bike pile-up at Rd1 of the British Superbike Championship at Oulton Park," added Whites Powersports, one of Richardson's sponsors, on the social media platform.
"Shane will be remembered by many as a great racer, person, and father. Our thoughts go out to Shane's young family and friends during this tough time.
Topics: Extreme Sports, Sport, UK News
Brenna Cooper