Driver Benson released from Mich. hospital

[June 17, 2009]  GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. (AP) -- Reigning NASCAR truck champion Johnny Benson has been released from a Grand Rapids hospital three days after being injured in a fiery crash.

The 45-year-old driver suffered burns and broken ribs after his vehicle collided with another car, slammed into a wall and burst into flames.

The crash was Saturday during an International SuperModified Association race at Berlin Raceway in Marne, just northwest of Grand Rapids.

Benson was taken to Spectrum Health Butterworth Hospital, where he initially was listed in serious condition. He was upgraded to fair on Sunday and released Tuesday.

The Grand Rapids native now lives in Charlotte, N.C. He lost his full-time ride this month when Red Horse Racing shut down his truck because it couldn't find sponsorship.

[Associated Press]

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