1939 Indianapolis 500

The 27th Indianapolis 500 took place May 30, 1939. The race was won by the number two car of Wilbur Shaw, who started in the third position. The race was notable for a three car accident on lap 109, when Floyd Roberts the reigning champion, was killed when his car went through the wooden outer wall at over 100 mi an hour at the backstretch.

In Louis Meyer's final Indy 500, he too would crash at the backstretch at over 100 mi at hour, but he walked away unharmed.

Of the 33 drivers who started the race, 12 would have their lives ended by vehicle accidents.

The Crash
With Roberts on lap 109, the car driven by Bob Swanson lost control and went sideways. Roberts' car contacted Swanson's, causing Swanson's car to eject Swanson, flip over, and catch fire, while Roberts' car went through the outer wall. Chet Miller's car went into the debris field, flipped, and went into the inner wall. Two spectators were also injured by flying debris. The three drivers were taken to hospitals, while it took over 30 minutes to clear the burning wreck of Swanson's car from the track. Roberts death due to brain injuries was announced before the race was completed.

Results
Results of the 1939 Indianapolis 500 held at Indianapolis on Tuesday, May 30, 1939.