Denny Hamlin Breaks His Silence On Tragic Family Accident

Originally posted on The Spun | By Chris Rosvoglou | Last updated Dec 31, 2025 3:50 PM ET

NASCAR fans around the country are offering their thoughts and prayers to longtime Cup Series driver Denny Hamlin.

Hamlin's parents were involved in a "catastrophic" fire at their house in North Carolina. His father, Dennis, passed away at CaroMont Regional Medical Center. His mother, Mary Lou, suffered critical injuries while escaping the fire. She was reportedly taken to Atrium Health Wake Forest Baptist Burn Center for immediate treatment.

“NASCAR extends its deepest condolences to Denny Hamlin and the entire Hamlin family," a statement from NASCAR read. "Dennis Hamlin instilled a love of racing in his son, and sacrificed greatly to develop Denny into a world-class talent in the sport. We also continue to offer our thoughts and prayers to Denny’s mother, Mary Lou, and hope for her full recovery.”

On Wednesday afternoon, Hamlin commented on his father's death. He thanked everyone who reached out to him during this difficult time.

"Thank you to everyone who has reached out with condolences on my father’s passing," Hamlin wrote on social media. "My mother continues to improve, and our family truly appreciates the outpouring of support and the respect for our privacy during this time."

Nov 1, 2025; Avondale, Arizona, USA; NASCAR Cup Series driver Denny Hamlin (11) during qualifying at Phoenix Raceway. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-Imagn Images© Gary A. Vasquez-Imagn Images

Hamlin's parents did everything to help him achieve his dream.

Even though Hamlin's family didn't come from money, he said his parents did everything in their power to ensure he could become a full-time NASCAR driver.

"My parents had no money [for racing]. My parents had very normal jobs, but they found a way. That way is a path I would never recommend anybody taking. Every credit card that comes to the mail — okay, we'll use it," Hamlin said, via Fox Sports. "Asking people to help. Second and third mortgaging the house. All these things. The arguments I had to listen to — I'm in my room, and my mom and dad are going at it. One is saying, ‘I can't do it anymore.’ The other one saying, ‘Please, just one more week.’ It's great it's all paid off."

Hamlin definitely made the most out of his opportunity, becoming a three-time Daytona 500 winner. Since his first Cup Series race in 2005, he has racked up 60 wins and 376 finishes in the top 10.

We're certainly hoping Hamlin receives a positive update on his mother in the coming days.

This article first appeared on The Spun and was syndicated with permission.

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