Dirt Track Racing Icon Scott Bloomquist Dies In Tennessee Plane Crash

Chris Graythen / NASCAR via Getty Images

Scott Bloomquist, a well-known figure in dirt track racing, was tragically killed in a plane crash near his home in Mooresburg, Tennessee, on Friday (August 16) morning.

Local authorities confirmed the incident, which occurred around 7:15 a.m. EST. Reports indicated that Bloomquist was “involved in a small aircraft crash.”

Sheriff Ronnie Lawson told The Rogersville Review that Bloomquist, who had a private airstrip—a 1938 Piper Cub J3C-65—at his home, crashed into a barn on his property. As a result, emergency services responded to the scene, where Bloomquist was found dead. He was 60 years old.

Furthermore, Reid Millard, a close friend and fellow racer, shared the news on Facebook after speaking with Bloomquist’s mother, Georgie. His post read:

“Scott Bloomquist was a dear friend of mine, as he was to many in the Dirt Late Model and racing community. His mother, Georgie, called me this morning and asked me to share the tragic news that Scott passed away…I will travel to Tennessee to support the Bloomquist family during this difficult time. To Scott’s daughter, Ariel, his parents, his sister, and all of you who knew and loved him, you are in the hearts and prayers of the entire Millard family. Godspeed, Scott. May you soar forever on the wings of eagles.”

See his full post below.

Scott Bloomquist’s Racing History

Bloomquist was celebrated as one of the greatest drivers in Dirt Late Model history. Born in Fort Dodge, Iowa, his racing career began in 1980. Since then, he won numerous championships and over 600 races.

Despite facing several health challenges in recent years, including injuries from a motorcycle accident, prostate cancer, and shoulder surgery, Bloomquist remained determined to compete at major events. His last competition was on August 3, 2024, at the USA Nationals in Wisconsin.

He last won the Lucas Oil Late Model Dirt Series in 2016 and the Dream XXIV at Eldora Speedway in 2018.

In 2002, Bloomquist was inducted into the National Dirt Late Model Hall of Fame.

After hearing the news, World Racing Group CEO Brian Carter shared:

“Scott Bloomquist’s legendary status not only grew out of his accomplishments on track, but his innovations throughout the dirt Late Model industry. He played a key role with DIRTcar Racing and the World of Outlaws, helping to rebuild the World of Outlaws Late Models so it could grow into what it’s become today. His influences also helped the evolution of racetracks and chassis over the years. Bloomquist’s passion for the sport and innovative mind will be deeply missed by all.”

ROSSBURG, OH - JULY 24: Scott Bloomquist, driver of the #51 ToyotaCare Toyota, is introduced during the NASCAR Camping World Truck Series inaugural CarCash Mudsummer Classic at Eldora Speedway on July 24, 2013 in Rossburg, Ohio. (Photo by Chris Graythen/NASCAR via Getty Images)
Scott Bloomquist at the NASCAR Camping World Truck Series inaugural CarCash Mudsummer Classic in 2013. Photo: Chris Graythen / NASCAR via Getty Images

Scott Bloomquist is survived by his daughter, Ariel, as well as his parents and sister. His family is in our thoughts and prayers during this time.