The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) released a report this week confirming that the plane crash of dirt track racing icon Scott Bloomquist was an act of suicide. Bloomquist, 60, died on August 16, 2024, when his small plane crashed into a barn near his home in Mooresburg, Tennessee. The NTSB’s final report stated that the probable cause of the crash was the pilot’s intentional flight into a building as an act of suicide. The ruling, which has been widely reported in the media, brings closure to a tragic incident that shocked the racing community and beyond.
Bloomquist, a former Lucas Oil Late Model Dirt Series champion, had a storied career spanning over four decades. His success included multiple championships in the 2000s and a place in the National Dirt Late Model Hall of Fame as a member of its second class in 2002. With over 600 career victories, Bloomquist was one of the most accomplished drivers in the history of the sport. His legacy as a racing legend is now intertwined with the tragedy of his untimely death.
Following the release of the NTSB report, Bloomquist’s family issued a statement, requesting privacy and emphasizing their focus on supporting one another during this difficult time. They asked the media to respect their wishes and refrain from further inquiries. The family’s statement, released through FOX Sports, highlighted their desire to grieve in private and not engage in public discussion about the incident.
The racing community has been deeply affected by Bloomquist’s passing. Tributes have poured in from fellow drivers, former teammates, and fans who remember him as a trailblazer in the sport. While the details of his personal life and the reasons behind his decision remain private, the racing world mourns the loss of a true icon. The NTSB’s ruling, while providing closure, does not diminish the impact of his death on those who knew him.
As the racing community reflects on Bloomquist’s legacy, it also grapples with the reality of his passing. The tragic circumstances of his death serve as a reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of mental health awareness. The media and public are encouraged to respect the family’s wishes and provide a supportive environment as they move forward.