Fan Killed, Driver Injured in Baja Crash

A Baja 500 desert racer crashed into a crowd of spectators after losing control of his vehicle Saturday, killing a man and injuring eight other people in Ensenada, Mexico, according to broadcast reports.

Luis Alberto Valdez died shortly after he was struck by the car during the 30th Tecate SCORE Baja 500 Desert Race, a 460-mile course in the northern part of the Baja California peninsula, KFMB-TV reported.

Jim Baldwin Jr., of Laguna Beach, lost control of his vehicle less than 10 miles into the race, his father told the television station KGTV. Baldwin was taken by helicopter to Mercy Hospital in San Diego, where he was listed in serious condition.

“They spent I guess about a half an hour with the jaws of life prying him out of the car,” Jim Baldwin, the driver’s father said. “The car was in a pretty big wreck. His helmet, which is as good a helmet you can get. . . . was all cracked and so if it weren’t for the helmet I don’t think he’d be here.”

Spokesmen for Ensenada police and the 30th Tecate SCORE Baja 500 Desert Race did not immediately return phone calls.

Miscellany

Defending champion Bill Behrens of Orange advanced to the final in the open division of men’s singles at the Adoption Guild Tennis Tournament Saturday, defeating Fernando Samayoa, 6-2, 6-2 at the Newport Beach Tennis Club.

Behrens will face Costa Mesa’s Andy Stewart at 11 today. Stewart defeated Scott Davis of Newport Beach, 7-6, 6-0.