Dick Trickle Dead Of Apparent Suicide, NASCAR Drivers React


Retired NASCAR driver Dick Trickle died on Thursday of an apparent suicide. The 71-year-old allegedly called 911 and told the operator “there would be a dead body and it would be his.”

The operator attempted to call him back, but nobody answered. Trickle’s body was discovered near his pickup truck at Forest Lawn Cemetery in Boger City, North Carolina.

Tim Johnson, a Lieutenant Detective with the Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office, stated that foul play is not suspected. He added that a note was found by Dick Trickle’s body. Further information, such as the contents of the note, will not be disclosed. Johnson explained:

“We’re trying to protect the family as much as possible, and they had just gotten notified right after it happened. We’re trying to respect their privacy.”

NASCAR released a statement about Trickle’s apparent suicide, saying that its thoughts and prayers are with the former stock car driver’s family. The statement added:

“Dick was a legend in the short-track community, particularly in his home state of Wisconsin, and he was a true fan favorite. Personalities like Dick Trickle helped shape our sport. He will be missed.”

Current and former NASCAR drivers took to social media following the news of Dick Trickle’s death. Rusty Wallace, who was mentored by Trickle, stated:

“I’m in 100 percent shock. Dick Trickle was my mentor. When I was short track racing, I would call him every Monday morning and he would always help me with race setups and stuff. He and I had such a good time telling stories …”

Other NASCAR drivers joined in mourning Dick Trickle’s death, saying on Twitter:

Dick Trickle is considered one of the best short-track racers in American history. Despite never winning a Cup race, Trickle’s larger than life personality made him a legend.

[Image via Royalbroil]

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