“I am forever grateful”: Frankie Muniz shares heartbreaking account of losing his grandfather at 97

Actor-turned-NASCAR driver Frankie Muniz announced on December 3, 2024, that his grandfather John Preli passed away last Monday, November 25, 2024, on Thanksgiving at the age of 97. Muniz shared the news along with a heartfelt message for his grandfather on his X account.

Muniz mentioned that his Thanksgiving plans were abruptly changed when he received a call about his grandfather situation. John Preli was a former Navy Seal who served the United States of America in World War II, showcasing his immense strength and courage.

Recalling the time spent with his grandfather, Frankie Muniz wrote:

"Every member of my family is where they are and who they are because of him. He taught us lessons about life that I will never forget and I am forever grateful to have had him in my life. I'm at peace knowing my grandfather is in a better place with his wife of almost 70 years, Martha. Sad to lose my grandfather but loved getting to spend time with my family this weekend as it was a reminder of what is truly important. I love you pops."

Muniz attended the funeral ceremony with his wife and three-year-old son, Mauz Mosley Muniz, and shared the images on his Instagram handle. Frankie's son placed a bouquet on his great-grandfather's casket.

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Frankie Muniz encountered a fatal accident at Phoenix Raceway after a multi-truck pileup

The 2024 NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series season concluded with a multi-truck pileup at Phoenix Raceway on November 8, 2024. The #27 Ford truck was involved in the incident and sustained significant damage.

The crash happened during lap 99 of the 155-lap race while series champion Ty Majeski while leading the field. The incident was triggered by Connor Mosack, who hit the wall on turn 2, causing a multi-truck wreck on the track. This involved truck drivers Tyler Ankrum, Stefan Parsons, Frankie Muniz, Thad Moffitt, William Sawalich, Andres Perez de Lara, Spencer Boyd, and Stewart Friesen.

The crash ended the day Frankie Muniz and three more drivers. NASCAR analyst Noah Lewis shared the clip of the incident on his X account and wrote:

"Hard hit for @frankiemuniz. He limps from his truck to the ambulance."

Muniz made contact with Sawalich's truck and did half a spin on turn three. The actor-turned-professional racer left the scene in an ambulance after the fatal wreck and finished the race in P34.

Muniz had a challenging 2024 season. He began the year in the Xfinity Series with Joey Gase Racing but struggled with speed and failed to finish his first two races. As a result, he returned to the Truck Series. Despite the disappointing end to his season, Muniz has secured a full-time ride with Reaume Brothers Racing for the 2025 Truck Series.