As with so many popular figures in the public eye who die under unnatural circumstances, people tend to focus on the death instead of the life. Unfortunately Kevin Grubb's suicide at age 31 seems to be no different.

Many speculations and much hearsay surround his passing, which took place on May 7, 2009 at the Alpine Motel in Henrico, VA as reported by the Richmond Times Dispatch on the following day. This article will focus only on the facts of Kevin's life, as well as only the proven circumstances of his death.

Kevin Grubb's first NASCAR start took place in 1996 and he participated in two races that year. In 1997 he followed up with two more starts. In 2006, he returned for six more starts in the NASCAR circuit.

His crash on the 2nd lap during the September race at RIR ended his driving career, as he refused to submit to substance abuse testing immediately following the crash. Since he already tested positive in 2004 and was on a re-instatement program, he was suspended indefinitely.

However, there is a little known factor being reported by Frontstretch writer Jeff Meyer in regards to this refusal. Jeff reports that Kevin does not remember much of the accident. Kevin was diagnosed after the crash at a local hospital with a concussion. Once he remembered all the events, Kevin allegedly offered to take the test and stated he had been clean all that year.

It was also never revealed what substance Kevin Grubb tested positive for back in 2004. People are quick to speculate that he was addicted to illegal drugs. However, NASCAR has the strictest substance abuse policy from any sport. Alcohol, over the counter drugs, as well as prescription drugs, are on the long list of banned substances. This is necessary due to the nature of the sport.

It is therefore important to note that there is no proven fact of Kevin being a drug addict, nor was he ever charged with any type of use or possession of any type of illegal substance. Also, per the police report as published by the Associated Press, there was no drug paraphernalia found in the motel room at the time of his death. His cause of death, as revealed by the medical examiner in the Richmond Times Dispatch, was a self-inflicted gun shot wound, not a drug overdose.

His wife, family and friends, as well fans who had the good fortune to meet Kevin, describe him as a wonderful person with a caring personality. He always conducted himself in a friendly and respectful manner with NASCAR officials, other drivers, and reporters.

His young life was cut short by tragic circumstances, which we never may fully understand. This lack of understanding should never lead to slander of character. Instead, Kevin should be remembered for the shining light he surely was to those who knew him. He was laid to rest on May 9th at Forest Lawn cemetery in Richmond, VA.

Learn more about this author, Alexandra Heep.
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