NASCAR legend Jimmie Johnson made his first public comments this week about the tragedy that struck his family last summer.
Johnson’s in-laws and nephew were found dead in their Oklahoma home last June in an apparent murder-suicide that rocked the family.
The seven-time NASCAR champion has not made any statements about the event since a July 2023 Instagram post, but broke his silence during an appearance on “Today.”
“First and foremost, thank you for the support,” Johnson said. “Friends and family, fans far and wide have been extremely supportive, and that’s helped us through this incredibly difficult time. We’re managing the best we can, and that’s really all you can do, so thank you for the support and the continued support.”
Johnson’s in-laws, Jack and Terry Janway, the parents of the NASCAR star’s wife, Chandra Janway, were found dead in their home in Muskogee on the night of June 26.
Dalton Janway, Johnson’s 11-year-old nephew, was also found deceased in the house.
Police believe that Terry shot and killed Jack and Dalton before turning the gun on herself.
Johnson pulled out of the inaugural Chicago Street Race, which would have been his fourth NASCAR Cup Series race of the 2023 season.
The legendary driver remained mum on the tragedy until he released a statement on July 28, a little over a month after the incident.
“Our family is devastated by the profound loss of [Terry] Lynn, Jack and Dalton Janway,” Johnson wrote. “We have been humbled by the outpouring of love and support during this unthinkably sad time and remain grateful for all of your compassion.”
Johnson will be inducted into the NASCAR Hall of Fame later this week, and despite being retired, he is still racing a limited slate.
He is scheduled to compete in nine races, including the Daytona 500, this season.
