Tragedy strikes Purdue University: Beloved school mascot Boilermaker Special involved in a fatal car crash in Indiana

On April 24, 2025, Purdue University’s beloved mascot, the Boilermaker Special, was involved in a tragic accident on U.S. Highway 52 in Tippecanoe County, Indiana. The locomotive-style vehicle, operated by members of the Purdue Reamer Club, veered across the median, colliding with a car. The accident resulted in the death of the car’s driver. A local hospital treated the Reamer Club members on board for minor injuries.

Witnesses reported that the Boilermaker Special may have suffered a blown tire, causing the driver to lose control. Another witness account suggests the vehicle swerved to avoid an obstacle and overcorrected, leading to the crash. ​

The Boilermaker Special is a symbol of Purdue school spirit

Police: Boilermaker Special's left front tire blew, causing fatal crash https://t.co/GYYtRe5dho

— Journal & Courier (@jconline) April 25, 2025

The Boilermaker Special VII, introduced in 2011, is a symbol of Purdue’s engineering heritage and school spirit. It has been a fixture at athletic events and community gatherings, representing the university’s commitment to innovation and tradition. ​

As the Purdue community mourns this loss, the university has not yet announced plans regarding the future of the Boilermaker Special. The Reamer Club and university officials are cooperating with authorities to investigate the cause of the accident.​

A Purdue University spokesman told the Journal & Courier, “We can confirm our Boilermaker Special was involved in a serious multi-vehicle accident in Tippecanoe County this afternoon. Our thoughts are with all those impacted by the incident.” 

Meanwhile, Purdue confirmed that two students, both in their 20s, who were on the Special, had been treated and released from the hospital. Authorities will conduct toxicology reports on both drivers. 

“The Sheriff’s Office is continuing with our investigation into any additional mechanical issues that may be related to the crash,” the Tippecanoe County Sheriff’s Office said in a statement on Friday, referring to the accident.