A shocked world is reacting to news that NASCAR driver Jimmie Johnson's in-laws and nephew have been killed in an apparent murder-suicide. The gruesome discovery was made on Monday, prompting Jimmie to pull out of the upcoming Chicago Street Race. Jimmie's nephew was just 11 years old at the time of his death. Shocked and devastated fans have taken to social media to offer Jimmie support and sympathy.
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The deaths are being investigated as a suspected murder-suicide.
Authorities found Jack and Terry Janway, the parents of Jimmie's wife, Chandra Johnson, dead inside of their Muskogee, Oklahoma, home on Monday.
Once they entered the residence, they also discovered the body of Jimmie and Chandra's young nephew Dalton, who had also been killed, according to NBC 5.
It looks like Terry Janway was behind the heinous act.
The tragic story has been compounded by news that it would appear that Terry Janway was the one who killed her husband and grandson before turning the gun on herself. The investigation is ongoing, but NASCAR has released an official statement about the loss.
"We are saddened by the tragic deaths of members of Chandra Johnson's family," the organization noted in a statement. "The entire NASCAR family extends its deepest support and condolences during this difficult time to Chandra, Jimmie and the entire Johnson and Janway families."
Fans have rallied around the families after learning the news.
Loyal fans have taken to social media to share their condolences.
"Horrible! Prayers and condolences to him, his wife, family and all who knew them," one person wrote.
Another person sent prayers. "Praying for jimmie Johnson and his family in th[i]s difficult time," the commenter wrote.
Some drew comparisons to another tragic loss of life.
A similarly horrific event struck the NASCAR community back in 2016, when former racer Robby Gordon lost his father and stepmother to a murder-suicide.
"It's all tragic," one fan posted on Twitter. "Rick and Wanda Lewis, the Gordon couple and now the Ja[n]way family. Unthinkable."
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Our thoughts are with the Johnsons and Janways.
This is an unimaginable loss, and we can't even begin to understand the scope of what these two families are going through. We hope fans will be understanding of Jimmie's needs during this time and allow the family time to grieve as they process the loss and participate in what we're sure will be a painful investigation.
Note: If you or any of your loved ones are struggling with suicidal thoughts, you can always reach out to the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline by calling 988. They are available 24/7 by phone or online chat.
