Laguna Seca Telehandler Destroys Rare R34 Nissan Skyline, Owner Files Lawsuit
A distressing event recently occurred at WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca, where a track-operated telehandler inadvertently demolished a highly prized R34 Nissan Skyline GT-R. This incident, which transpired during a red flag period, has led the vehicle's owner to initiate legal proceedings against the racetrack. The owner, Artin Nazaryan, has chosen to make the details of the lawsuit public following unsuccessful private negotiations, highlighting a severe lapse in track safety protocols and accountability.
The incident unfolded during R's Day 2025, an annual celebration for GT-R enthusiasts featuring track day activities. Early in a morning session, an oil spill from another car caused a chain reaction of minor incidents, prompting track officials to first issue a black flag, followed by a red flag. While such flag procedures are standard in track events, the subsequent actions proved to be highly irregular and ultimately catastrophic.
Amidst the red flag, several vehicles, including Nazaryan's meticulously maintained R34 Nissan Skyline V-Spec, were left stationary on the track. A telehandler, dispatched to clear debris and repair barriers, proceeded to collide with Nazaryan's car. Video evidence clearly shows the telehandler, laden with tires that obstructed the operator's forward visibility, crashing into the rear of the Skyline, which was parked safely off the racing line. The impact rendered the vehicle irreparable, with extensive damage to the rear driver’s quarter.
Nazaryan's R34 was no ordinary vehicle; it was a highly customized track machine valued at approximately $250,000, boasting a sequential transmission, a 2.8-liter HKS-built engine, and numerous other high-performance upgrades. Initially, Nazaryan sought a private settlement for the damages. However, when negotiations faltered, and track officials reportedly attributed blame to him, he decided to pursue legal action publicly.
According to Nazaryan's public statements, Laguna Seca officials claimed he failed to park his vehicle in a safe location and did not adhere to proper flagging procedures. However, visual evidence and Nazaryan's detailed account contradict these assertions, reinforcing the perception of track worker negligence. Nazaryan, an attorney himself, emphasized that his public outreach is merely to present the facts and seek justice for the destruction of his car, without encouraging harassment of the track or its personnel.
The situation has garnered significant attention and public outcry, with many calling for Laguna Seca to resolve the matter fairly. Nazaryan had initially proposed a quiet settlement that would include positive public relations for the track, seeking only compensation for his vehicle and foregoing claims for injury or punitive damages. The unfortunate turn of events has transformed what could have been a discreet resolution into a widely publicized dispute, underscoring the complexities and potential pitfalls of track safety and liability.