Four-time USAC champion and 2000 Indianapolis 500 competitor Jason Leffler is being mourned as an accomplished racer who “was a terrific guy.”

Leffler died June 12 from injuries suffered in a crash during a winged sprint car race in Bridgeport, N.J. A native of Long Beach, Calif., he was 37.

"We are very saddened at the passing of Jason Leffler,” Indianapolis Motor Speedway COO Doug Boles said. “He was one of the most versatile race drivers in America, showing his talent by competing in the Indianapolis 500 and the Brickyard 400 at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway during his career.

“He also displayed the skills that would help him reach the top levels of the sport by winning four USAC national series titles while winning on tracks throughout the Midwest. Our deepest sympathies are extended to his entire family, team and fans."

Panther Racing managing partner and CEO John Barnes said Leffler, who started several Silver Crown races for Panther Racing in 2004-05, was “a friend who reminded me so much of Parnelli Jones.”

“He was one of the most versatile drivers I have ever met. We will miss his fierce competitive spirit and his devilish attitude. He constitutes the old saying, ‘It isn't the size of the dog in the fight, it’s the size of the fight in the dog.’ Jason was a small man with a huge right foot. Our prayers go out to his entire family, and especially his son Charlie. He will be forever missed.”

Added IZOD IndyCar Series team owner/driver Ed Carpenter, who raced against Leffler in USAC competition: He was an excellent driver and a champion back then. We also worked together for Dollar General when I drove for Sarah Fisher's IndyCar team and he drove for Turner Scott Motorsports in NASCAR. Our prayers go out to his family and friends in this very difficult time."