Dick tragically took his own life at the age of 71, and a new report claims that the NASCAR driver was allegedly battling an illness and depression.

On May 16, Dick Trickle, 71, was found dead at Forest Lawn Cemetery in Lincoln County, North Carolina from an apparent suicide. The death appeared to be caused by a self-inflicted gunshot wound.

Dick Trickle Suicide: Did He Kill Himself Because Of Tragic Illness?

Multiple sources claim that Dick had been depressed and sick for some time before his death, TMZ reports. The health condition that Dick suffered from is unknown at this time.

Dick Trickle Found Dead At 71

According to the North Carolina Police Department, Dick shot himself around 12 p.m. on May 16. Emergency responders received a call before Dick’s death, claiming that there would be a dead body in the cemetery, and it would be Dick’s.

Responders tried to desperately to make a return call, but they were unsuccessful. Emergency responders found Dick’s body near his pick up truck. His body was taken from the cemetery and transported to a nearby hospital. The NASCAR driver left a suicide note on the scene, according to TMZ.

NASCAR Releases A Statement About Dick Trickle’s Death

During his racing career, Dick competed in more than 2000 estimated races. Throughout his career, he logged one million laps and won near 1,000 feature races. He’s also credited as the winningest short track driver in history.

After Dick’s death, NASCAR chairman and CEO Brian France released a statement about his death:

Our thoughts and prayers go out to the family and friends of Dick Trickle on his passing today. Dick was a legend in the short-track racing community, particularly in his home state of Wisconsin, and he was a true fan favorite.  Personalities like Dick Trickle helped shape our sport. He will be missed.

WATCH: 2012 Dick Trickle 99 – Segment 3

– Jenny Pickard

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