Kyle Busch died of "severe pneumonia that progressed into sepsis," family says

Added: 2026-05-26

[00:00:00]We now know what caused the death of NASCAR legend Kyle Busch. Today, his race car, rebranded to the number 33, took to the track at the Charlotte Motor Speedway with a teammate behind the wheel. CBS's Lindsay Reiser joins us now with new details. Lindsay. Good evening, Jericka. Today, the family of Kyle Busch revealed the NASCAR champion's pneumonia progressed into sepsis, a life-threatening condition.

[00:00:23]Please rise and join us in a moment of silence. NASCAR held a tribute for two-time Cup Series champion Kyle Busch at the Charlotte Motor Speedway, where he was supposed to compete this weekend.

[00:00:35]Thank you. The 41-year-old's family revealing severe pneumonia progressed into sepsis, resulting in rapid and overwhelming associated complications.

[00:00:46]Each year, at least 1.7 million Americans develop sepsis, and about 350,000 die from it. Dr. Jon LaPook is the CBS News Chief Medical Correspondent. And what it is is severe infection where your body becomes overwhelmed, and your organs start to collapse. Once the severe sepsis sets in, there may be nothing that you can do. And sadly, it sounds like that's what was going on right here. Busch suffered a medical emergency the day before his death while in a racing simulator, according to the Associated Press. And more than a week earlier, Busch asked for a doctor after a race in New York. Kyle Busch wins at Dover. Busch, one of the sport's greatest drivers, just secured his 69th win last week in Delaware. He just um really meant a lot to a whole generation of younger fans.

[00:01:38]Busch's racing team has retired the number eight until his 11-year-old son is ready to take the wheel. North Carolina's governor has ordered flags to be flown at half-staff at state buildings until tomorrow at sunset.

[00:01:50]Jericka. All right, Lindsay Reiser.

[00:01:52]Thank you.