A tragic accident occurred during the “Aladzha Monastery” mountain climbing car race in Varna on Sunday, leaving one spectator dead and eight others injured, according to the Regional Directorate of the Ministry of Interior.
Car loses control, crashes into crowd
Authorities said the accident took place when a driver missed a turn and went over the guardrail, crashing into a group of spectators gathered along the race route. The 60-year-old victim died on the spot.
A 27-year-old woman sustained life-threatening injuries and is currently in intensive care, while a 39-year-old man suffered an ankle fracture and is being treated in the orthopaedic department.
Spectators were in restricted area, say organisers
Addressing reporters, Slavi Slavov, director of the race, confirmed that the accident took place in an area off-limits to the public.
“The victims were in a place marked with a warning sign and safety tape,” Slavov said, adding that the driver was not injured in the crash.
The organisers have reiterated calls for strict adherence to safety protocols at sporting events to prevent such tragedies.
Investigation underway
The District Prosecutor’s Office in Varna has opened an investigation into the incident. Authorities are examining the circumstances surrounding the crash, including whether safety measures were properly implemented.
The driver voluntarily provided a blood sample to determine if he had consumed alcohol or drugs before the incident. Preliminary reports suggest he was sober at the time of the crash.
Race suspended after fatal accident
Following the incident, organisers suspended the event and coordinated with emergency responders to ensure the injured received prompt medical attention. The Ministry of Interior confirmed that police and forensic experts were deployed to the scene for further examination.
This is the first fatality recorded in the history of the “Aladzha Monastery” mountain climbing race, which draws motorsport enthusiasts from across Bulgaria each year.