James Crown, a Chicago-based billionaire and respected philanthropist, died in a race car crash on Sunday, June 25, his 70th birthday, at the Aspen Motorsports Park in Woody Creek, Colorado.
The Pitkin County Coroner’s Office confirmed Crown’s hit against an impact barrier at the racetrack while driving around a curve. He received multiple blunt force trauma, though the exact cause of death remains to be established pending further investigation.
At the age of 70, Crown, owner of the Aspen Skiing Company and a participant in numerous other business ventures, was a prominent figure in Chicago.
Expressing grief over the news, Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson acknowledged Crown’s significant contributions to the city. He highlighted Crown’s philanthropic activities and his active roles on various civic and academic boards.
Mayor Johnson reflected on Crown’s generous spirit and his dedication to investing in the city and its residents. He expressed condolences to Crown’s wife, their four children, grandchildren, and the extended Crown family.
According to CBS Chicago, Crown was a member of the Civic Committee of the Commercial Club of Chicago, a non-profit organization. He had recently been working on an initiative with the committee to raise substantial funds to combat Chicago’s crime rate by partnering with local organizations and leaders.
A week before his tragic death, Crown and his wife were attendees at a state dinner at the White House. President Biden, in a statement, mourned the loss of Crown, praising him as a hardworking, compassionate, and community-driven individual. The President referred to Crown as a dear friend and a great American.
