Colombo, Sri Lankan police on Monday arrested two racing drivers who were involved in a deadly accident during a motor car racing event in the island nation that killed at least seven people, including a child, and 2 others. Were injured.

The accident occurred on Sunday at the 'Foxhill Super Cross', a popular racing event organized by the Sri Lankan Army in the central resort of Diyathalawa in the Uri province as part of the traditional New Year celebrations.

According to eyewitnesses, the accident occurred when a competing car in a racing event veered off the track and overturned.

Another car, blinded by dusty smoke, overturned when the vehicle ahead overturned and crashed into the spectators, killing seven people, including an 8-year-old boy, and injuring 23 others.

The two racing drivers were arrested and taken to hospital where they were receiving treatment for injuries.

Army Commander Vikum Liyange visited the hospital where the injured were being treated.

The Army said the gathering failed to heed their warnings, advising spectators to stay away from security barricades along the track.

Foxhill Super Cross Track is built and maintained by the Sri Lanka Military Academy, Diyathalawa.

The racing event was revived after a gap of 5 years.