NASCAR icon Jimmie Johnson recently spoke publicly for the first time about the heartbreaking incident that befell his family last summer. The tragedy involved the death of Johnson’s in-laws and nephew, who were discovered in their Oklahoma residence in June, in what appeared to be a murder-suicide, deeply impacting the family. Although the seven-time NASCAR champion had refrained from making any public statements since an Instagram post in July 2023, he chose to share his thoughts during an appearance on “Today.”
Johnson expressed his gratitude for the widespread support, saying, “First and foremost, thank you for the support. 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.” The tragic incident involved the deaths of Johnson’s in-laws, Jack and Terry Janway, who were the parents of his wife, Chandra Janway, and occurred in their Muskogee home on the night of June 26.
Authorities believe that Terry shot and killed Jack and Dalton before taking her own life with the gun. In the wake of the family tragedy, Johnson withdrew from the inaugural Chicago Street Race, which would have been his fourth NASCAR Cup Series race of the 2023 season. The racing icon chose to remain silent about the heartbreaking incident until he issued a statement on July 28, a little over a month after the tragic event.
Jimmie Johnson expressed the devastation his family felt due to the profound loss of Terry Lynn, Jack, and Dalton Janway in a statement. He acknowledged the overwhelming love and support they received during the incredibly sad time and expressed gratitude for the compassion shown by others.
Despite his retirement, Jimmie Johnson is set to be inducted into the NASCAR Hall of Fame this week. He continues to participate in a limited schedule of races, with plans to compete in nine events, including the Daytona 500, during the current season.
