BATTLE CREEK (WWJ) - A fiery explosion at the Battle Creek Field of Flight Air Show that claimed the life of 40-year-old Chris Darnell was caused by a blown tire hitting the truck's fuel tank, Darnell's father confirmed on Tuesday.
As reported by the Associated Press, the jet engine-powered semitruck driver was racing against two airplanes during a performance at the southwestern Michigan air show when the fatal accident occurred.
In video of the performance posted online, Darnell can be seen driving the specially-outfitted truck through a pyrotechnic explosion as part of the stunt, but the vehicle came away on fire before flipping several times.
Neal Darnell, the driver's father, told the Associated Press that a tire blew off and ruptured the fuel tank on the left side of the vehicle.
The accident prompted the explosion not even moments later.
"It happened so quickly that Chris didn't even have time to react," Neal said.
In a social media post by Darnell Racing Enterprises, Neal said his youngest son died of his injuries around 1:01 p.m. on Saturday.
"We are so sad. Just one month ago Chris turned 40," his father wrote. "He was so well loved by everyone who knew him. Chris so loved the Air Show business. He was 'Living the Dream' as he said.'"
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The Shockwave Jet Truck driven by Darnell is part of the Darnell Racing Enterprise’s show team from Springfield, Missouri — they feature the Aftershock Jet Fire truck and the Flash Fire Jet Truck.
According to the team’s website, the Shockwave truck is made up of three Pratt & Whitney J34-38 jet engines originally used in U.S. Navy T2 Buckeys. Over 36,000 horsepower and 21,000 pounds of thrust are produced by the powerful engines, propelling the truck up to speeds of 350 mph or more.
The team’s three trucks have been featured at air shows and performances across the nation
Darnell's father said on social media that he will post new information as it become available; funeral arrangements are expected to be made in the next couple of days.
Reaction to Darnell's death has been swift on social media, with air performance groups from the Navy's Blue Angels to the Air Force's Thunderbirds giving their condolences.
A GoFundMe page has been set up to help support his wife Brooke and two young daughters, Reese, 14 and Taylor, 12.
"Chris performed and entertained millions at airshows and races in Shockwave each year," the page stated. "Chris loved his craft and excelled at bringing joy to those who watched him perform or were lucky to know him."
So far, the crowdfunding site has raised over $31,500 out of a $50,000 goal.
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