NASCAR races in California this weekend at San Diego’s Naval Base Coronado saw an unexpected fan incident. The O’Reilly Auto Parts Series race on Saturday faced numerous incidents, with the most significant on a restart when Sam Mayer suffered a severe collision.

The race was stopped to allow crews to clean up and inspect barriers. During this pause, Sheldon Creed, driver of the No. 00 Haas Factory Team car, experienced an unusual encounter. A fan scaled the fence to approach Creed, chatted briefly, and then retreated back over the fence to rejoin the crowd.

The fan completed this feat in flip-flops, which added to the absurdity. Creed mentioned over the radio that the fan appeared to be under the influence of alcohol, a reasonable assumption given the situation. Thankfully, nobody was harmed, but such actions are risky and generally discouraged.

Similar incidents have happened before. According to a broadcast, at a 2007 race in Watkins Glen, N.Y., a fan approached Matt Kenseth during a red flag for an autograph. This resemblance is a reminder to fans: red flags are not opportunities for meet-and-greets.

Attending races safely and respectfully enhances the experience for everyone.