CHARLOTTE, SC — Popular NASCAR driver Kyle Busch addressed reports on Monday, Feb. 6, that he was detained in Mexico in late January, returning from a family vacation in Cancun.
The Mexico Prosecutor General’s Office said in a press release that on Jan. 27, a Nevada man listed as Kyle Thomas was taken into custody after authorities found a handgun. They went on to say that the weapon was loaded with hollow point rounds.
Bush released his statement to the media on Monday. “In late January, Samantha and I enjoyed a several-day vacation in Mexico," Busch said.
"When departing the country, my handgun was flagged during routine screening at the airport. I have a valid concealed carry permit from my local authority and adhere to all handgun laws, but I made a mistake by forgetting it was in my bag."
NASCAR's Kyle Busch
(Credit: twitter.com/@KyleBusch)
"Discovery of the handgun led to my detainment while the situation was resolved. I was not aware of Mexican law and had no intention of bringing my handgun into Mexico," he continued.
"When it was discovered, I fully cooperated with the authorities, accepted the penalties, and returned to North Carolina," Busch added.
Mexican officials said that Bush was sentenced to 3.5 years in prison and ordered to pay 1,100 dollars. However, there is no indication that Busch will serve his sentence at this time. Instead, Busch continues to prepare for the start of the 2023 NASCAR season with the Daytona 500 on Feb. 23.
Bush begins this season with a new team, Richard Childress Racing, after ending his previous contract with Joe Gibbs Racing.
Kyle Busch
(Credit: beyondtheflag.com)
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