We have an update on the tragic death of Jessi Combs.
The former MythBusters host and racecar driver was killed in a car accident late this past August, passing away at the very young age of 36.
According to multiple reports, Combs was trying to set a land-speed record for a woman driving a three-wheeled vehicle when the crash took place in Oregon’s Alvord Desert.
A statement from Jessi’s family confirmed as much at the time.
Now, the Harney County Sheriff’s Office has announced that it has completed its investigation into the crash involving Combs, with cooperation from the North American Eagle Race Team.
It was announced an official cause of death.
"Based on the evidence collected and examined at the scene of the crash and the evidence recovered by the North American Race Team it appears that there was a mechanical failure of the front wheel, most likely caused from striking an object on the desert," Lieutenant Brian Needham said in a press release.
He added:
"The front wheel failure led to the front wheel assembly collapsing.
"The front wheel failure occurred at speeds approaching 550 miles per hour."
It’s this last part that really explains it all, of course.
Combs was driving at speed literally never driven at before — given the vehicle in which she was traveling — and it’s nearly impossible to know how a car will react to this sort of circumstance.
Jessi’s cause of death was determined to be blunt force trauma.
This is not surprising, but that doesn’t make it any less sad.
Combs hosted MythBusters from 2009-2010.
She also appeared in the television series documentary Overhaulin. And, just last year, she stopped as a guest in Jay Leno’s Garage.
Said her family upon confirming their loved one’s passing:
It is with extreme grief, and in celebration of her life that her family and close friends share that race car driver, and TV personality Jessi Combs, passed away in a fatal crash, where she was pursuing a land speed record in the North American Eagle on August, 27th 2019 on a dry lake bed in Oregon.
The details of the crash have not been released at this time.
Concluded Jessi’s relatives this summer:
Jessi was known for her bright smile, positivity, and tenacious pursuit of the fulfillment of her dreams. Her drive was infectious, and she served as a role model for young Girls, and Women around the world.
People that loved her and followed her became family, all bonded together by adventure and passion.
Her fans adored her, and she lived to inspire them.
We continue to send our condolences to the family members, friends and loved ones of Jessi Combs.
May she rest in peace.
