NASCAR driver Kyle Busch exhibited alarming symptoms, including coughing up blood and shortness of breath, the day before his death, according to a 911 call obtained by CBS News. Busch died Thursday at age 41, with no official cause of death disclosed.
The call, made from a General Motors training facility in Concord, North Carolina, described Busch as “very hot,” short of breath, and worried he was going to pass out. He was found lying on a bathroom floor and was conscious but severely unwell. The emergency caller instructed responders to arrive quietly without sirens.
Busch had been testing in a Chevrolet racing simulator at the facility on Wednesday afternoon when he became unresponsive and was quickly taken to a hospital in nearby Charlotte. His family previously confirmed he was hospitalized with a “severe illness” three days before he was scheduled to race in the Coca-Cola 600 at Charlotte Motor Speedway.
Kyle Busch’s Career and Final Race
Kyle Busch was one of NASCAR’s most accomplished drivers, holding an all-time record of 19 consecutive seasons with at least one win from 2004 to 2023, and accumulating 63 wins in the NASCAR Cup Series. Known for his fierce competitive spirit and racing skill, he also contributed to the sport as a team owner in the Truck Series.
Eleven days prior to his death, Busch finished eighth at Watkins Glen despite battling a sinus cold aggravated by the physical demands of the track, requesting a medical shot over the radio after the race.
Reactions from the NASCAR Community
Former NASCAR driver Jimmie Johnson expressed his shock and sadness, calling Busch a “spirited, ruthless competitor” respected across the sport. President Donald Trump also paid tribute on social media, honoring Busch as a “true talent” and extending condolences to his family.
Why it matters
Busch’s sudden death at a relatively young age raises questions about his underlying illness, especially given the severity of his symptoms before hospitalization. His passing marks a significant loss for NASCAR, where he was a prominent figure with a dedicated fanbase.
Sources
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