Veteran NHRA Lucas Oil Drag Racing Series competitor William “Bill” Janke, 57, from Newburgh, N.Y., tragically passed away from injuries sustained during a crash on Sunday.
On July 8, 2024, Janke was involved in a fatal accident during the Top Sportsman eliminations at the Division 1 race at Lebanon Valley Dragway. The incident occurred around 12:30 p.m., as reported by New York State Police Trooper Aaron J. Hicks. According to Hicks, Janke lost control of his vehicle for unknown reasons, struck a barrier, and was ejected from the car. Emergency medical services pronounced him dead at the scene.
Witnesses described the harrowing moment when Janke’s car caught fire as he crossed the finish line in a victory over Lawrence Willard, leaving the New Lebanon, N.Y., racetrack in flames.
Janke’s wife, Meredith Howard Janke, expressed her grief on social media:
“I would like to firstly thank everyone for their prayers. I’m crying my eyes out posting this. My husband Bill Janke, who I love with all my heart, has gone to heaven today after a horrible car crash that took his life. He absolutely loved drag racing! It was his life and passion. Please know that he loved his drag racing family! You were the world to him! I truly loved my husband with all my heart and I really don’t know how I’m going to survive this. We met on a blind date and fell in love instantly. He asked me to marry him 2 months later and we married a year later. This August, we would have celebrated 29 years. I can’t imagine my life without him. I’m sorry for my rambling. I just loved him with all my heart. He truly was my lifeline. Once I have made arrangements, I will let everyone know. He loved you all! Thank you!”
An article in County Local News highlighted Janke’s significant impact on the NHRA community, noting his generosity and willingness to assist fellow racers. Known for his warm personality and sense of humor, Janke was a beloved figure in the racing world, and his loss will be deeply felt by all who knew him.
