Jimmie Johnson releases statement for first time since family tragedy

For the first time since the tragic news came out, Jimmie Johnson has released a statement on the deaths of his in-laws and nephew. The family experienced an unimaginable loss in what authorities suspect was a murder-suicide.

Police were called to the home of Jack and Terry Janway. Law enforcement arrived after receiving a 9-1-1 call around 9 PM on June 26th earlier this summer. The news sent shockwaves through the sports and NASCAR worlds.

In the wake of the news, Jimmie Johnson understandably stepped away from his NASCAR duties on the track to take time to deal with this loss with his wife and family. This is the first statement from Johnson since the news broke.

“Our family is devastated by the profound loss of Lynn, Jack and Dalton Janway. We have been humbled by the outpouring of love and support during this unthinkable sad time and remain grateful for all of your compassion,” the statement says.

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— Jimmie Johnson (@JimmieJohnson) July 28, 2023

When police arrived at the Janway home in Muskogee, Oklahoma, they found one body in the hallway. Police were on the scene when they heard a gunshot come from another area of the house. They found the bodies of Jack and Lynn Janway as well as 11-year-old Dalton Janway.

Jack was a chiropractor, 69 years old. Lynn was 68.

Jimmie Johnson stepped back from NASCAR after tragedy

After the terrible news came out, it was clear that Jimmie Johnson and his family would need time to themselves. No one can imagine the loss and pain that the family is going through after this unthinkable tragedy. So, NASCAR took a backseat. Johnson, co-owner of LEGACY Motor Club and part-time driver in the No. 84 Chevy has been out of the spotlight.

Johnson was scheduled to race the Chicago Street Race in the No. 84 Chevy but stepped out of the race following the deaths in his family.

NASCAR released a statement in the wake of the news and lent its support to the Johnson and Janway families.

“We are saddened by the tragic deaths of members of Chandra Johnson’s family,” the statement said. “The entire NASCAR family extends its deepest support and condolences during this difficult time to Chandra, Jimmie and the entire Johnson & Janway families.”

It will likely be a while before we see Jimmie Johnson back on the track in NASCAR. However, fans and others will keep sending their support and well-wishes and will wait for when Johnson is ready to return. Upon his return, I’m sure he will be showered with love from the fanbase.