NASCAR community reacts to passing of Eric McClure

Eric McClure died on Sunday at age 42

Eric McClure died on Sunday at age 42. The driver made nearly 300 starts across the top three divisions of the NASCAR ladder.

The cause of death was not released.

It was reported by the Associated Press that his body has been sent to Roanoke for an autopsy. That’s according to the Washington County (Virginia) sheriff’s office.

The McClure family released the following statement: “The family of Eric Wayne McClure, former NASCAR driver, announces with great sorrow his passing on Sunday. They would like to thank everyone for their prayers and support during this very difficult time.”

Eric McClure crashes

A crash in 2012 at Talladega Superspeedway left him with a concussion among other injuries.

A year following the crash, McClure reflected on the incident saying, ““I am a better person because of what happened.”

He added, “I could talk for two hours about how this has really impacted our lives, but it’s way too much drama unless people have gone through something traumatic. It was huge for our family.

He continued, “It just uprooted everything we were used to. It made us think about career steps, family steps, what we need to focus on. When people go through things, it affects them differently and not everyone can relate to that situation, but for me, it’s just still surreal.”

In 2015, McClure suffered another concussion at Kentucky Speedway. His racing career came to an end the following year.

In 2019, McClure suffered from a lung infection and a severe musculoskeletal disorder. He told the Bristol Herald Courier that year that he had undergone tests and surgeries before reaching a diagnosis of rhabdomyolysis. The rare syndrome is related to muscle injuries that can lead to kidney failure

“I no longer take little things for granted,” McClure told the Herald Courier’s Allen Gregory. “Whatever the next chapter of my life is, I know that this journey — the pain, the tears, the laughter, new relationships — will be what has prepared me.”

The NASCAR community reacts to the death of Eric McClure

NASCAR: “We are saddened to learn of the passing of former driver and owner Eric McClure. NASCAR extends its deepest condolences to Eric’s family and friends.”

Austin Cindric: “Really saddened to hear about the loss of Eric McClure today. Helped me get a start in NASCAR. Will always cherish our success & these memories. RIP friend.”

Toyota Racing: “We are saddened to hear of the passing of Eric McClure. Our thoughts are with his family at this time.”

JD Motorsports: “Today, we celebrate the life of Eric McClure. We are deeply saddened by his loss and send the McClure family our condolences.”

Mike Harmon Racing: “We are saddened by the news regarding Eric McClure’s passing. We extend our deepest condolences to his fiancé, family, friends, and those who knew him within the NASCAR community. Rest in paradise Eric.”

McClure was a native of Chilhowie, Virginia. His uncle Larry is co-owner of Morgan-McClure Motorsports.

Eric McClure spent 7 years in the NASCAR Cup Series beginning in 2004 and most recently in 2014. He only started in three of his seven attempts. The driver also ran 288 races in the NASCAR Truck Series. He collected one top-10 which came in the 2013 season.

McClure was father to seven children — all girls.

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