The racing world lost a legend when Scott Bloomquist, a dirt track icon, died in a plane crash on August 16, 2024, near his home in Mooresburg, Tennessee. Recent reports, released on June 5, 2025, by the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), have ruled the crash a suicide, sending shockwaves through the motorsport community. Bloomquist, known for his unmatched skill and bold personality, left behind a legacy that continues to resonate with fans and fellow racers. This blog dives into the life, career, and tragic end of Scott Bloomquist, exploring the impact of this devastating news.
Scott Bloomquist: A Dirt Track Legend
Scott Bloomquist carved out a reputation as one of the greatest dirt track racers in history. Born in Iowa, he began racing in the 1980s and quickly rose to prominence. With over 600 career wins, including 94 Lucas Oil Late Model victories and 33 World of Outlaws Late Model races, his dominance was undeniable. His No. 0 car, adorned with a skull and crossbones, became a symbol of his rebellious spirit. Bloomquist secured nine national championships, including three Lucas Oil Late Model Dirt Series titles in 2009, 2010, and 2016, and the 2004 World of Outlaws Late Model Series crown. Inducted into the National Dirt Late Model Hall of Fame in 2002, he was a fan favorite for his skill and charisma.
His larger-than-life persona earned him nicknames like “Voodoo Child,” “The Bloomer,” and “Black Sunshine.” Beyond racing, Bloomquist was a skilled pilot, often flying vintage planes near his Tennessee home. His passion for aviation, however, took a tragic turn, leading to the events that ended his life.
The Plane Crash That Shook the Racing World
On August 16, 2024, Scott Bloomquist piloted his vintage Piper J3 aircraft from a private airstrip near his family’s farm in Mooresburg. Around 7:15 a.m., the plane crashed into a barn on his property, killing him instantly. He was the sole occupant. Initial reports from the Hawkins County Sheriff’s Office confirmed the crash, but details remained scarce until the NTSB’s final report. The investigation, concluded in June 2025, determined that Bloomquist intentionally flew the plane into the barn, ruling his death a suicide. This revelation stunned fans and peers, who remembered him as a fierce competitor with an unyielding spirit.
The news sparked an outpouring of grief on social media. Posts on X reflected the somber mood, with many expressing disbelief and sadness. One friend wrote, “He was in pain. He is no more. RIP Bloomer,” highlighting the personal struggles Bloomquist faced in his final years.
Personal Struggles and Resilience
Before his death, Scott Bloomquist battled significant health challenges. In 2019, a motorcycle accident in Daytona left him with severe lower-body injuries, causing ongoing numbness. In 2023, he was diagnosed with prostate cancer, and he faced chronic back pain as he prepared for surgery. A horsefly bite, unnoticed due to his numbness, led to a hospitalization shortly before the crash. Despite these setbacks, Bloomquist remained determined to return to racing, showcasing his resilience. His most recent top-five finish came earlier in 2024 at a race in Tazewell, Tennessee.
These struggles, however, may have taken a toll. The NTSB’s findings suggest Bloomquist was grappling with deeper issues, though his family has chosen not to comment publicly. Their representative requested privacy, stating they would not address the NTSB’s conclusions. This silence underscores the complexity of Bloomquist’s final moments and the pain felt by those closest to him.
A Legacy That Endures
Scott Bloomquist’s impact on dirt track racing is immeasurable. His innovative approach to building racecars matched his skill behind the wheel. Fellow racer Tony Stewart called him “a force on the track and off,” while Tyler Reddick, a NASCAR driver mentored by Bloomquist, credited him for shaping his career. Tributes poured in from across the motorsport world, with fans and competitors alike celebrating his contributions. His daughter, Ariel, survives him, carrying forward his legacy.
| Scott Bloomquist’s Achievements | Details |
|---|---|
| Career Wins | Over 600 |
| Lucas Oil Late Model Wins | 94 |
| World of Outlaws Late Model Wins | 33 |
| National Championships | 9 |
| Hall of Fame Induction | 2002 |
Honoring a Racing Icon
The loss of Scott Bloomquist has left a void in the racing community. His swagger, talent, and unapologetic attitude made him a standout figure. While the circumstances of his death are heartbreaking, they do not diminish his contributions to the sport. Fans continue to share memories of his races, from his dominant performances to his bold personality. His story reminds us of the human side of even the most celebrated figures, urging compassion and understanding.
As the racing world mourns, Bloomquist’s legacy lives on through the races he won, the records he set, and the inspiration he provided. His No. 0 car will forever symbolize a driver who lived life on his terms.
Share your favorite Scott Bloomquist memory in the comments below or on social media to keep his spirit alive in the racing community.