Purdue University’s train mascot, the Boilermaker Special, was involved in a tragic accident on Thursday in Tippecanoe County, Indiana. The incident occurred when the vehicle, possibly due to a tire malfunction, crossed the median on U.S. 52 while traveling north and collided with a southbound car. The sole occupant of the southbound vehicle was pronounced dead at the scene, with the identity pending notification of the family by the coroner’s office.
At the time of the accident, 20-year-old Madison Cook, a Purdue student from Noblesville, was driving the Boilermaker Special, accompanied by 22-year-old Taylor Melton from Rockport. Both students were taken to the hospital for treatment and subsequently released. Authorities indicated that toxicology tests will be conducted for both drivers as part of the investigation. The Tippecanoe County Sheriff’s Office is also examining potential mechanical issues related to the crash, with assistance from the Indiana State Police Commercial Vehicle Division.
The Boilermaker Special VII has been Purdue’s official mascot since 2011 and is maintained by the Purdue Reamer Club. Known for being the “world’s fastest, heaviest, and loudest mascot,” the Boilermaker Special travels extensively to support Purdue at away football games. The incident has raised concerns, prompting a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding the crash.
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