Cause of death revealed for NASCAR contractor who died on site in Chicago

NASCAR Chicago Street Race Weekend finally here

Many people are asking "why Chicago?" when it comes to the first NASCAR Street Race. Radio Host Ray Stevens says the explanation is simple, NASCAR has had a drive for diversity for a long time. The Chicago landscape will bring something new to the table and hopefully draw a more diverse spectator pool.

The NASCAR contractor who died at the NASCAR Chicago Street Race Friday was electrocuted, the coroner said.

Duane Tabinski, 53, of Tennessee, was found slumped over at about 11:30 a.m. near Buckingham Fountain.

A witness told police he was carrying wood to help set up the event when he heard Tabinski groan, according to a police report. When the witness checked on Tabinski, he spotted him "slumped over," and was about to render aid when another worker stopped him because Tabinski was in a "padlock" area, with a high voltage of electricity circulating.

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The wait is over, as Chicago's NASCAR street race kicks off Saturday downtown.

After the electricity was "diffused," paramedics were able to treat him and take him by ambulance to the hospital.

Tabinski was hired by Nascar to set up audio for the pre-race celebrations, according to the report.

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According to the Chicago Street Race map provided by NASCAR, the man was killed in the area of where the ‘Fan Plaza’ is located.

NASCAR released the following statement:

"On Friday afternoon, a contractor suffered a fatal medical emergency. We are coordinating with local authorities on this tragic incident. We share our condolences to the family and their loved ones."

The Sun-Times Media Wire contributed to this report. 

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