Kyle Busch, a two-time champion of the NASCAR Cup Series, revealed on Monday via a social media statement that he was arrested and detained at Cancun International Airport in Mexico for the inappropriate possession of a firearm at the end of January.
The statement from Busch, who finished third in Sunday’s Busch Light Clash at the LA Memorial Coliseum, reads as follows:
“In late January, Samantha and I enjoyed a several-day vacation in Mexico. 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.”
“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 a handgun into Mexico. When it was discovered, I fully cooperated with the authorities, accepted the penalties, and returned to North Carolina. I apologize for my mistake and appreciate the respect shown by all parties as we resolved this matter. My family and I consider this issue closed.”
On February 3rd, the Fiscalia General de la Republica (The Public Ministry of the Attorney General of the Republic) in Quintana Roo released a notice on the matter, which states that Busch would be sentenced to three years, six months in prison, and a fine of 20,748 pesos – approximately $1,100 USD.
At this time, there has been no indication of if/how Busch will be serving the sentence, however, the Las Vegas, Nevada native dictated in the aforementioned statement that he and his family consider this matter closed.
This is a developing story. Additional updates, as they become available, will be added to this story in a timely manner.
