Thomas "Tommy" Pistone III, aged 50, passed away at his home on Caldwell Road in Charlotte, North Carolina, on September 14, 2024. Reports indicate that he died by suicide, having sustained a self-inflicted gunshot wound to the head around 7 a.m. Family members discovered him and promptly called 911 to report the incident.
Tommy was a prominent figure in the local racing community, managing Tiger Tom Pistone Motorsports, a business established by his grandfather, Tiger Tom Pistone, a well-known name in racing circles. He was deeply involved in the family business and was known for his dedication to both his family and the sport. In addition to his work in motorsports, Tommy had a passion for animal welfare, leading him to establish a non-profit animal rescue organization in 2016.
He is survived by his daughter, Taylor Pistone, and his grandfather, Tiger Tom Pistone, along with numerous other family members. Tommy was preceded in death by his father, Thomas Pistone Jr.; his grandmother, Crystal P. Pistone; and his aunt, Rosie Pistone. In accordance with his wishes, there was no public memorial service. The family requested that, in lieu of flowers, donations be made to local animal rescue organizations in his honor.
Given the circumstances of his death being ruled a suicide, there were no suspects or arrests associated with the case. The community mourned the loss of a dedicated family man and animal advocate, whose contributions to both racing and animal welfare left a lasting impact on those who knew him.