Two die in Las Vegas fantasy driving experience

[The Ga[M]er.]

A driver and instructor were killed at a fantasy driving experience track just outside Las Vegas when their car spun, hit a barrier and burst into flames. Online photos showed thick black smoke pouring across Interstate 15 just south of town.

The Las Vegas Review-Journal said the driver was a male customer in his 30s and the instructor was a male in his 50s. Further identification was awaiting notification of next of kin. Calls to the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department and to the company that operates the racetrack have not yet been returned.

The 11-turn, 1.5-mile track is called SpeedVegas and can be seen on the right side of the interstate as you near the city coming from Los Angeles. The track’s promotional material promises guests they can, “Drive your dream car on a racetrack in Las Vegas.”

“Even if you’ve never driven on a racetrack, SPEEDVEGAS will feel natural the moment you arrive,” the company’s website reads. “SPEEDVEGAS brings your driving fantasies to life on the longest and fastest racetrack in Las Vegas. And that’s just the beginning.”

The site then lists cars available, with their per-lap prices, ranging from $39 a lap for a Shelby Mustang GT to $99 for a Lamborghini Aventador.

The Review-Journal quoted a statement from SpeedVegas CEO and founder Aaron Fessler confirming the deaths and saying the track is cooperating with authorities.

“We are devastated by this tragic event and extend our heartfelt sympathy to the families and to our SpeedVegas team members who have lost a beloved colleague,” Fessler said.

The $30 million track complex opened in September 2015. Qualifications to drive there say that “… drivers must be at least 18 years old and have a valid driving license from their country of origin … Helmets and close-toed shoes are required.”

Otherwise, the website says (their exclamation mark), “No prior experience needed! Just arrive, choose your car, and drive.”