Dan Wheldon: 1978-2011

(AP Photo/Isaac Brekken)
Dan Wheldon smiles during driver introductions for the IndyCar League's Las Vegas Indy 300 today.

Dan Wheldon has died from injuries after his car went sailing through the air during a massive 15-car wreck early in today's Las Vegas Indy 300.

He was 33.

Drivers were told of Wheldon's death in a meeting about two hours after the fiery crash that many drivers said was the worst they had ever seen. Only 15 cars were left racing after it happened.

Wheldon won the Indianapolis 500 twice, including last May.

Wheldon started 34th in the 34-car field in the final IRL event of the season, given the chance to win a $5 millin prize if he was able to come all the way to win. He had moved up to 24th place by the 11th lap.

ABC was live with an onboard camera in Wheldon's car during the telecast on the 13th lap commenting about his position when, at the top of the screen, what would be the accident that took his life began to unfold with smoke and cars spinning out.

"It looks like Dan Wheldon may be involved in it," said ABC broadcaster Marty Reid as the red flag came out to stop all racing.

Minutes later, a helicopter was flying Wheldon to a local hospital.

"Many people ask me why I always sign off, 'Til we meet again,' because 'Good bye' is always so final," said Reid as he closed today's telecast of the race, with a video of Wheldon celebrating his most recenty Indy 500 victory by drinking milk in the winner's circle.

"Good bye, Dan Wheldon."

Some of our tweets (@tomhoffarth) sent while watching the race:

At 12:35 p.m., as the race started: Dan Wheldon should have his $5 million game face on: http://tinyurl.com/3ledpgr Let's be safe out there. ...

At 1:30 p.m.: say a prayer now for dan wheldon ... how fast excitement goes to horror in IRL

At 1:45 p.m., a retweet from Ashley Judd, the wife of driver Dario Franchitti: Thanks everyone for prayers. No update on Dan yet except unconscious but vitals are good. Everyone here very scared. Pray for medical team.

At 2:30 p.m.: It's been 1 1/2 hrs since Wheldon crash and no update. Drivers in a meeting. Danica seen crying. http://tinyurl.com/6h5flpm #prayersforwheldon

At 2:45 p.m.: From today's Q-and-A with Wheldon: Can you go from back to front safely? "Absolutely" he said: http://tinyurl.com/3ledpgr #prayersforwheldon

At 3 p.m.: IRL's worst nightmare: Dan Wheldon passes away, drivers ready for a 5-lap tribute in season finale.