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NASCAR suspended Truck Series driver Conner Jones for one race on Wednesday after he intentionally crashed another driver, Matt Mills — who was hospitalized for two days over the weekend as a result of the wreck.
Jones, 18, lost his temper while racing Saturday at Homestead-Miami Speedway and rammed into Mills’ rear bumper, sending Mills’ truck up the racetrack and into the wall. Mills’ truck then caught fire. The driver was taken to a local hospital due to smoke inhalation.
NASCAR issued a two-lap penalty to Jones at the time. But after meeting this week, officials determined that Mills’ behavior also warranted a one-race suspension.
Jones refused to speak with reporters at the track, but later issued an apology in a statement on social media that said, in part: “Matt and I have encountered several on-track incidents this season, and I let my frustration get the best of me. I underestimated the impact my actions would have on Matt, and I deeply regret the consequences that followed.”
— Conner Jones (@connerjones88) October 26, 2024
Mills, after being released from the hospital Monday, posted a video to his social media channels that expressed appreciation for the outpouring of well-wishes from fans.
“Definitely didn’t like being in the hospital as long as I was or being in that situation,” Mills said, his voice still raspy from the smoke. “Having you guys there to support me and help me get through that, I can’t thank you all enough.”
Glad to be heading home. Appreciate everyone that reached out over the last couple of days. 🙏 pic.twitter.com/lN7Ph8y2fy
— Matt Mills (@mattmillsracing) October 28, 2024
Mills has been cleared to race Friday at Martinsville Speedway. He is 23rd in the point standings for Niece Motorsports with two top-10 finishes this year.
Jones, who has driven a part-time schedule for ThorSport Racing this season, has a best finish of 11th on the season. A replacement for Jones has not been named.
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(Photo: James Gilbert / Getty Images)
