The family asked for privacy and understanding as they grieve during this difficult time.
Audio from a 911 call obtained by PEOPLE revealed that Busch was reportedly coughing up blood and lying on a bathroom floor when emergency services were contacted on Wednesday, May 20. The caller told dispatchers that he was struggling to breathe, felt extremely overheated, and seemed close to passing out.
Busch had been expected to compete in the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series event in Concord, North Carolina, on May 22, as well as the Coca-Cola 600 at Charlotte Motor Speedway two days later. However, his health had reportedly worsened in the days leading up to the races.
Earlier in the month, after completing a race at Watkins Glen International, Busch requested medical assistance and mentioned over team radio that he would “need a shot.” Broadcasters later noted that he had been dealing with a sinus illness that became more severe due to the demanding conditions of the track.
Over the course of his career, Busch became one of NASCAR’s most accomplished drivers, winning Cup Series championships in 2015 and 2019 and earning hundreds of victories across NASCAR’s top divisions. He is survived by his wife, Samantha Busch, and their two children, Brexton and Lennix.
