NASCAR star Bobby East has been stabbed to death in a brutal attack at a California gas station.
The 37-year-old three-time USAC national champion died Wednesday afternoon while refueling his vehicle at the 76 gas station in Westminster.
Westminster Police said officers were called to reports of a stabbing at around 5.51pm that afternoon and arrived at the scene to find the racing star lying on the ground with a serious stab wound to his chest.
East was taken to the hospital, where he died from his injuries.
The suspect – 27-year-old Trent William Millsap – had fled the scene before officers arrived and a manhunt began to track him down.
Trent William Millsap is suspected of killing the racing star
(Westminster Police Department)
Mr Millsap, who has multiple facial tattoos, was described as a known transient who already had an outstanding warrant for his arrest.
Police warned the public that he should be considered armed and dangerous.
It’s not clear if East knew his killer, with no motive given for the attack.
Tributes from the racing world poured in for East as news of his murder spread.
Two-time NASCAR champion Todd Bodine tweeted that he was “very saddened” by East’s death and called him “a bloody wheelman.”
“Very sad to hear of the tragic incident involving legendary USAC driver Bobby East. He was a damn Wheelman. Thoughts and prayers to his family,” he wrote.
Automobile Racing Club of America communications manager Charles Krall also remembered East for his driving skills and offered his condolences to his family.
“In an open-wheel car, nobody was better. So sorry to hear the news today,” he tweeted.
“My love and thoughts are with his parents, Bob and Janice, and the entire East family. Run in peace Bobby.”
Anyone with information is urged to contact the Westminster Police Department at 714-548-3212 or Orange County Crime Stoppers at 1-855-TIP-OCCS or at www.occrimestoppers.org. Callers can remain anonymous.
