North Valley community mourns the loss of beloved Atwater race car driver

FRESNO, Calif. (KFSN) -- Racing in front of the pack in car number 15 is Bill Egleston.

On this day, the 53-year-old Atwater man competed on the tracks at Perris Auto Speedway in Southern California.

The day filled with chasing a nearly two-decade hobby ended in a tragic accident.

Egleston's son Michael describes what happened.

"It seems like he tried to avoid a collision and perhaps, collided with a car, and went on a wall and landed on another car. Racing is fast, and you can't always see things, and this gentleman, he didn't see and he hit the driver side where my dad was," said Michael.

The loving husband of 38 years and grandfather to two little girls died from his injuries. Family members say the sudden loss has left a huge hole in their hearts.

"From that moment on and even until this second, it just feels weird, that's all. There's obviously this void," said Michael.

The international motor contest association is also heartbroken.

In a statement, the president said:

"We extend our condolences to Bill's family. Bill was one of those drivers who made a positive impression on everyone. This is a sad set of circumstances."

Egleston's son says while this has been an emotional roller coaster, "We are all a family of faith and we know where he is."

They are comforted by knowing his dad lived doing what he loved.