Spectator killed during 1st stage of Monte Carlo rally race

MONACO (AP) — A spectator was killed after being hit by a car during the first stage of the season-opening Monte Carlo rally, race organizers said.

Organizers said the spectator was struck by a car driven by New Zealand driver Hayden Paddon during the first of two night stages held on Thursday night.

"WRC would like to express sincere condolences to the family and friends of the victim of Thursday's tragic accident at Rallye Monte-Carlo," the World Rally Championship statement said. "The spectator was transported by helicopter from the stage to hospital in Nice. Despite the best efforts of the medical staff, the spectator has sadly died. An investigation has commenced into the incident and all involved parties will provide assistance to the authorities."

No further details were given by organizers.

Stage 1 of the race was cancelled, although stage 2 was held later Thursday night. The race concludes Sunday.

Paddon's Hyundai Motorsport team subsequently withdrew Paddon's car from the race.

"As a mark of respect for the spectator who sadly passed away tonight we have decided to withdraw car #4 from Rallye Monte-Carlo," the team said. "The incident occurred at the same time as the #4 Hyundai i20 Coupe WRC of Hayden Paddon and (co-driver) John Kennard crashed into the mountainside, after the car hit a patch of black ice."