Madison Cook Obituary TIPPECANOE COUNTY, IN – A tragic collision involving Purdue University’s iconic mascot vehicle, the Boilermaker Special, resulted in the death of a woman on the afternoon of April 24, authorities confirmed.
The Tippecanoe County Sheriff’s Office reported that the crash occurred on U.S. Route 52 when the Boilermaker Special, traveling northbound, unexpectedly crossed the median and collided with a vehicle heading south. Chief Deputy Terry Ruley confirmed that the female driver of the southbound car was killed in the accident.
Eyewitness Lyndsay Lehr, who had been driving just ahead of the crash, said she saw the incident unfold in her rearview mirror. Lehr told authorities that she witnessed the Boilermaker Special appear to blow a tire before veering across the median and into the path of the oncoming vehicle. She immediately called 911 to report the incident. However, officials have not yet confirmed whether a tire blowout was the cause of the crash.
Two individuals who were riding in the Boilermaker Special at the time of the crash were not seriously injured but were transported to a local hospital as a precaution.
Purdue University spokesperson Trevor Peters issued a statement acknowledging the university’s awareness of the incident. “We can confirm our Boilermaker Special was involved in a serious multi-vehicle accident in Tippecanoe County this afternoon,” Peters said. “Our thoughts are with all those impacted by the incident.”
As investigations continue, local authorities are working to determine the precise cause of the crash. U.S. 52 remained closed for several hours while law enforcement conducted an on-scene investigation.
The Boilermaker Special, a beloved symbol of Purdue spirit and tradition, is operated by the student-run Reamer Club and frequently appears at campus events and athletic games. The incident has left the Purdue community shocked and saddened.
Further updates will be provided as more information becomes available.