Racing fan shoots himself dead in infield of NRA-sponsored NASCAR race after argument

Kirk Franklin, 42, of Saginaw, died of a 'self-inflicted injury' following the heated argument in the infield of Texas Motor Speedway on Saturday night



A racing fan shot himself dead at an NRA-sponsored NASCAR race in Texas last night, it was revealed today.

Kirk Franklin, 42, of Saginaw, died of a self-inflicted gunshot wound after a heated argument in the infield of Texas Motor Speedway, police said.

The man and his friends have been watching the NRA500 NASCAR race about 10.30pm when he shot himself.



Dead: Kirk Franklin, 42, of Saginaw, died of a 'self-inflicted injury' following a heated argument in the infield of Texas Motor Speedway, pictured, on Saturday night

Police spokeswoman Cpl. Tracey Knight has said alcohol may have been a factor.

Track spokesman Mike Zizzo say the death occurred 'in or around a pickup truck' in part of the infield near the middle of the backstretch.

Knight said she wasn't sure of Franklin's relationship with others involved in the argument.



Several people witnessed the incident, but nobody was in danger, she said.



The police official did not elaborate further on the cause of death but said there were no suspects. Emergency vehicles were called to the scene.

Alcohol: Alcohol may have been a factor in the incident, which occurred late in the Sprint Cup race, pictured

Police blocked off the area around the incident, and investigators could be seen looking into a truck.



Franklin died towards the end of the NRA 500, which kicked off at the Fort Worth speedway at 7:30 p.m.



Kyle Busch led the final 19 laps to win the race event.

For confidential support about depression in the U.K., call the Samaritans on 0845 790 9090 or visit a local Samaritans branch. Or click here to visit the charity's website.