💔 SAD NEWS: Hudson River Helicopter Crash Victims Identified — Half Were Children, Including the Son of a Former NASCAR Legend

New York City — April 11, 2025
A devastating tragedy has struck the racing world, as the victims of the helicopter crash over the Hudson River have been confirmed. Among the victims were half children, including the son of a former NASCAR legend. In a heart-wrenching revelation, Chase Elliott confirmed that one of the victims was his close friend’s son.

The helicopter, which was carrying a family on what was supposed to be a relaxing getaway, crashed just minutes after taking off from a helipad in Manhattan. Despite the rapid response from emergency services, all passengers were confirmed to have died in the crash.

A NASCAR Legend’s Family Torn Apart

Among the victims was Rick “Rocket” Thompson, 46, a former NASCAR driver who made his name on the tracks before retiring several years ago. Thompson, a beloved figure in the NASCAR community, was traveling with his wife, Jessica, and their two children: Dylan (8) and Grace (5).

“This was supposed to be a time for them to reconnect and spend time together,” said a source close to the family. “Rick was so excited to see his kids’ eyes light up at the chance to see New York. His kids meant everything to him, and Jessica was the glue that held them all together.”

The Heartbreaking Loss of Young Dylan

But the most devastating news came when Chase Elliott, who had known Rick Thompson for years and had raced alongside him in their early careers, confirmed that Dylan Thompson, just 8 years old, was among those lost in the crash. In an emotional statement on social media, Elliott wrote:

“My heart is shattered. Dylan was like a little brother to me. He had so much life ahead of him, and I can’t believe we’ve lost him. I’ve never felt a pain like this. I can’t even put into words how much I’ll miss that kid.”

Dylan had often been seen at races, cheering on his father and his “Uncle Chase,” as he liked to call Elliott. The young boy had been eagerly anticipating the helicopter trip to see the city from above.

A final text message from Jessica Thompson to her sister before the crash read:

“Dylan says he’s going to be the next big racer. He’s already making plans to race at Daytona when he’s old enough.”

It was the last message shared by the Thompson family before their world was tragically turned upside down.

Chase Elliott’s Tribute

Chase Elliott, who had been close to the Thompsons for many years, took to social media with an emotional tribute to his late friend and his son. “Rick was one of the most genuine people I’ve ever met,” Elliott said. “He was a competitor on the track, but the kind of father and friend that everyone looked up to. Dylan was like a son to me. He was always asking me questions about racing and had a bright future ahead. It’s heartbreaking to think that future was taken from us.”

Elliott also pledged to support the Thompson family’s surviving relatives and to do whatever he could to help them through the unimaginable pain they’re facing.

The Cause of the Crash

As investigators continue to examine the cause of the crash, early reports suggest that mechanical failure may have been to blame. The helicopter, which had recently passed a routine inspection, reportedly lost power shortly after takeoff, sending it spiraling out of control before crashing into the Hudson River.

The pilot, who also lost his life, was experienced with thousands of flight hours under his belt, but it appears something went terribly wrong during the flight.

A Racing Community in Mourning

The loss of Rick Thompson and his family has left a hole in the NASCAR community. Fellow drivers, fans, and friends have come forward to express their shock and heartbreak over the tragedy.

“Rick was more than just a driver, he was a mentor,” said Kyle Larson, who raced alongside Thompson in the early years of their careers. “He always had time for everyone, always made you feel like family. And Dylan—he was going to be a star, no doubt about it.”

A Family’s Legacy, Gone Too Soon

As the news spreads, the Thompson family’s legacy will forever be remembered by the NASCAR community. Rick Thompson’s final message to his followers, posted just days before the crash, read:

“Family first. No matter where life takes you, cherish those you love because they’re the real victory.”