Plane Crash Halts NHRA Finals in Pomona, CA Injuring Four

Emergency response praised as racing event resumes after two-hour delay

A single-engine plane crashed near the In-N-Out Burger Pomona Dragstrip on Sunday, causing a nearly two-hour interruption during the National Hot Rod Association (NHRA) Finals. The incident occurred around 11:11 a.m. local time when the aircraft collided with multiple vehicles in a motorhome lot adjacent to the dragstrip’s top end.

Incident Details

The plane, whose make and model have not been disclosed, struck two pickup trucks and an SUV before coming to a halt nose-first into a recreational vehicle (RV). The impact displaced the RV from its parking spot and left visible damage to the surrounding vehicles. The motorhome lot, situated past the grandstand on the left side of the dragstrip, was occupied by both motorhomes and private vehicles at the time of the crash.

Brackett Field Airport, located to the right of the dragstrip, is in close proximity to the crash site. The cause of the crash remains unknown, and investigations are underway with the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) being notified.

Emergency Response

Emergency services were promptly on the scene, including local law enforcement, fire and medical crews, and NHRA safety teams. Engineer Jonathan Torres, the public information officer for the Los Angeles County Fire Department, provided an update to the media.

“From what we know, units rendered life-saving emergency medical services as well as mitigated any fire potential from the surrounding vehicles, generators, and things of that sort,” Torres stated. “We have two critical patients and two moderate who have been transported to local emergency rooms.”

All four individuals injured were occupants of the plane. Fortunately, there were no reported injuries among spectators or individuals on the ground. The quick response by emergency personnel was instrumental in preventing further harm and ensuring the safety of those in the vicinity.

NHRA’s Official Statement

The NHRA released an official statement confirming the incident and providing assurances about the safety measures taken. “Today, a small single-engine airplane crashed at the Pomona Fairplex,” the statement read. “The pilot and three occupants of the aircraft all suffered minor to moderate non-life-threatening injuries and are being treated at a nearby hospital. The NHRA has been working closely with the Pomona Police Department and L.A. County Fire Department and has been guided to continue racing.”

The organization emphasized its commitment to safety and collaboration with local authorities. The decision to resume the event was made after careful consideration and clearance from emergency officials.

Impact on the NHRA Finals

The NHRA Finals, which commenced at 11 a.m., experienced a suspension of activities following the crash. Racing action resumed at approximately 12:50 p.m. local time. The temporary halt allowed officials to secure the area, attend to the injured, and ensure that there were no further risks to participants and spectators.

Fans at the event expressed a mix of concern and relief. “It was shocking to hear about the crash, but we’re glad everyone is receiving care and that no one on the ground was hurt,” said a spectator who wished to remain anonymous. “The NHRA handled the situation professionally.”

Ongoing Investigation

As the investigation continues, authorities will look into factors such as mechanical failure, pilot error, and weather conditions to determine the cause of the crash. The NTSB and FAA will conduct thorough examinations of the crash site, the plane’s maintenance records, and pilot credentials.

The incident serves as a reminder of the unexpected challenges that can arise during large-scale events and the importance of emergency preparedness. The swift action by first responders and NHRA officials helped prevent a tragic situation from escalating.

Conclusion

While the plane crash brought an unforeseen interruption to the NHRA Finals, the coordinated efforts of emergency personnel ensured the safety of all involved. As the racing community moves forward, thoughts are with the injured individuals and their families. Further updates will be provided as more information becomes available from the ongoing investigation.