North Carolina Governor Josh Stein has ordered all US and state flags to be flown at half-staff to honor late NASCAR driver Kyle Busch following his death at the age of 41.
According to TMZ, the statewide tribute began at sunrise on Saturday and will continue until sunset on Sunday. Busch, who primarily lived in Denver, North Carolina, died in Charlotte earlier this week.
In a statement shared by TMZ, Stein praised Busch’s impact on the racing community and beyond.
“Kyle Busch was not just a talented and record-setting driver; he was also a kind person,” the governor said. “His loss will be felt throughout the entire NASCAR community and well beyond… may his memory be a blessing.”
Medical details emerge after sudden death
The tribute comes as new details surrounding Busch’s final days continue to emerge.
Busch’s family said the NASCAR veteran died from severe pneumonia that progressed into sepsis.
TMZ obtained 911 audio connected to the medical emergency that led to his hospitalization. According to the recording, a caller told dispatchers that Busch had been “coughing up some blood” and appeared close to passing out.
Reports further stated that Busch became unresponsive while using a racing simulator before emergency personnel arrived.
The sudden nature of Busch’s death shocked fans and members of the NASCAR world, especially because he had remained active in racing shortly beforehand.
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NASCAR community mourns veteran racer
Busch had competed in NASCAR’s All-Star Race just days before his death and reportedly won a Truck Series race less than a week earlier.
His passing has prompted an outpouring of tributes from across the motorsports community, with many remembering him as one of NASCAR’s most recognizable and successful modern-era drivers.
TMZ also reported that Busch’s No. 8 car is expected to be reserved until his son is old enough to potentially pursue a racing career of his own.
Authorities have not announced any further investigation related to Busch’s death.
