Pennsboro Speedway and the track’s owner the Ritchie County Fairgrounds issued a statement following the arrest of XR Events CEO and owner Barry Braun, who partnered with the Fairgrounds to help rebuild and reopen the track as well as promote it.
Braun was arrested earlier this month in Minnesota by the Lake County Sheriff’s office with the West Virginia State Police later announcing it was working with Minnesota to extradite him to West Virginia. The West Virginia State Police through its Harrisville Detachment announced in a press release that it had opened an investigation into Braun in September 2025 over a fraudulent scheme case. The police reported that “the investigation uncovered a pattern of fraudulent activity and deception in dealings where Mr. Braun was involved, which focused on racing venues and their related business.”
The police also shared that they uncovered evidence and sought warrants charging Braun with fraudulent schemes and an obtaining under false pretence charge in Ritchie County, West Virginia. The police did not provide any other details on the charges.
WDTV would later report that the West Virginia State Police informed it that Braun failed to pay PDK Construction for the installation of a guardrail at the Speedway. The outlet noted, “Partial payment was eventually made in April when two checks in the amount of $10,000 each were issued. However, an outstanding balance of $17,327.75 was left, police said.”
Following this the Pennsboro Speedway issued a statement on November 19th that it posted to Facebook, “The Ritchie County Fair Board (RCF) is aware of recent developments involving individuals formerly associated with Pennsboro Speedway. Because these matters are now part of active legal proceedings, RCF will not comment on any details related to those cases. Our responsibility is to the people of Ritchie County and to the long-term future of Pennsboro Speedway. With that duty in mind, the Board believes it is important to clearly communicate our position.”
It added, “As a public board, our duty is to safeguard country property and ensure that all improvements and operations meet appropriate standards. RCF has cooperated with lawful requests from authorities and has taken steps to secure the facility and its surrounding grounds.”
Additionally, the track indicated it was working to develop “a racing program that reflects Pennsboro’s legacy and identity” and it is working to make a “forward-looking plan for 2026 and beyond.”
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