Tragedy struck the dirt racing community as renowned driver Scott Bloomquist, 60, was confirmed dead following a plane crash in Hawkins County on Friday. The Hawkins County Sheriff's Office reported that the small plane, carrying only Bloomquist, crashed into a barn near his family farm in the Mooresburg area. Crews from the county's rescue squad responded to the scene after the crash was reported at 7:47 a.m., as noted on Facebook.
Unidentified remains found at the crash site are believed to be that of Scott Bloomquist, according to the Hawkins County Sheriff's Office, with the county forensics department expected to make the final identification. Knox News, reported this detail, emphasizing the legend's influence on the sport. Bloomquist was a household name in dirt track racing, having a decorated career that spanned over four decades.
The World of Outlaws Late Models series, where Bloomquist showcased his racing prowess, remembered him in a statement saying his "legendary" passion for the sport and innovative mind will be "deeply missed by all." A prominent figure in the sport, Bloomquist won 33 World of Outlaws Late Model races, collected 94 victories in the Lucas Oil Late Model series, and was a nine-time national champion.
As WVLT News described, Bloomquist not only made a name for himself in dirt racing but also crossed over into the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series and the ARCA Menards Series. His legacy was cemented with an induction into the National Dirt Late Model Hall of Fame in 2002, a testament to his impact, on and off the racetracks.
Following the news of his passing, tributes have poured in from friends, family, and competitors alike. Moberly Motorsports Park confirmed the tragedy, with Reid Millard announcing, "His mother Georgette just called me and wanted me to announce that he lost his life this morning," as stated in a WBIR report. Friends and competitors joined in expressing their condolences and reflecting on the profound influence Bloomquist had in the world of dirt race driving.
Investigations by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) into the circumstances of the crash are ongoing. Community members have been asked to avoid the area to allow emergency teams to manage the site and continue their work.
