NASCAR has confirmed that Mike Stefanik, a nine-time NASCAR champion and NASCAR Hall of Fame nominee, died Sunday in a plane crash.
Connecticut State Police have confirmed that an Aerolite 103, single-engine plane crashed into a wooded area adjacent to the airport in Sterling, Connecticut.
Police did not reveal the cause of the crash, as it remains under investigation, CNN reports.
“Mike Stefanik was one of the most successful drivers in NASCAR history, but even more so, he was a true representative of our sport,” NASCAR Chairman and CEO Jim France said.
“His tough, competitive nature and excellence on the race track won him the respect and admiration of fans and competitors alike. “
“His career stretched more than 30 years, bridging the generations between Jerry Cook and Richie Evans to our current drivers.”
“He recorded achievements in this sport that are likely untouchable, and his legacy as a champion will endure. We will keep his wife Julie and his family and friends in our prayers.”
RIP.
