Rick Treadway Motorcycle Accident Indianapolis: Former Indy 500 Starter Dies at 56 Following Tragic Crash
Rick Treadway Motorcycle Accident
The Indianapolis motorsports community is mourning the loss of Rick Treadway, a former IndyCar driver and Indianapolis 500 starter, who died in a motorcycle accident on May 30 at the age of 56. News of his passing has prompted an outpouring of condolences from fellow drivers, racing officials, friends, and fans who remember his contributions to open-wheel racing and his deep ties to the Indianapolis racing world.
Rick Treadway was best known for competing in the Indy Racing League during the 2001 and 2002 seasons. His most notable achievement came when he qualified for and started the 2002 Indianapolis 500, beginning the race from 17th position in a car fielded by Treadway Racing, the team owned by his father, Fred Treadway. He ultimately finished 29th after being involved in an on-track incident during the race.
Throughout his professional racing career, Treadway made 11 IndyCar starts and earned a career-best finish of fifth place at Texas Motor Speedway in 2001. Before reaching the IndyCar level, he competed in Formula 2000, USAC Silver Crown, National Midget competition, and SCCA racing, building a reputation as a dedicated and passionate competitor.
Beyond racing, Treadway was known for his work in business development and aviation. A graduate of Indiana State University, he worked as a commercial pilot and also served as a Federal Aviation Administration-certified flight instructor. Friends and colleagues often described him as adventurous, energetic, and deeply committed to the pursuits he loved.
Following the announcement of his death, tributes poured in across the racing community. Former Indy 500 winner Arie Luyendyk remembered Treadway as a “fun, crazy, humble, wild and brave personality,” while fans and fellow competitors reflected on the impact he made both on and off the track.
As family, friends, and members of the racing world grieve this sudden loss, Rick Treadway is being remembered for his passion for motorsports, his adventurous spirit, and the legacy he leaves within the Indianapolis racing community. His memory will continue to live on among those who knew him and the fans who followed his journey through the sport.