Bloomquist dies in plane crash on farm
Hall of Famer Scott Bloomquist of Mooresburg, Tenn., a larger than life figure considered one of the greatest drivers in Dirt Late Model racing history, died Friday morning in an accident while flying a vintage airplane on his family farm. He was 60.
The news of Bloomquist’s death in a small aircraft crash was published by the Rogersville (Tenn.) Review and also confirmed by Missouri racer and close Bloomquist friend Reid Millard, a funeral director who announced the tragedy in a Facebook post after receiving a call from Bloomquist’s mother Georgie.
According to Millard’s post, the crash occurred around 7:15 a.m. EST into a barn near Bloomquist’s home and race shop. The local fire department and law enforcement were still on the scene several hours later and an FAA investigation into the accident is ongoing.
Bloomquist’s passing brought immediate reaction from all corners of the racing world, including a statement from World Racing Group CEO Brian Carter.
“Scott Bloomquist’s legendary status not only grew out of his accomplishments on the track but his innovations throughout the Dirt Late Model industry,” said Carter, whose company includes the World of Outlaws Case Late Model Series that Bloomquist helped bring back to life in 2004. “He playeda 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 across the country.
“Bloomquist’s passion for the sport and innovative mind will be deeply missed by all.”
A winner of over 600 races whose last start came on Aug. 3 in the USA Nationals at Cedar Lake Speedway in New Richmond, Wis., Bloomquist is survived by his daughter, Ariel, his parents and a sister.
Editor’s note: Adds detail of accident
