What: Aero-Trans Corp. DBA North American P-51D-15-NA Mustang (mod.)
Where: Reno Stead Airport, Nevada
When: 16-SEP-2011
Who: 3 fatalities, 1 aboard (2 on the ground)
Why: The Reno air race show was the site of unexpected carnage today. The famous movie stunt pilot and racer nosedived near the spectator’s box seats, veering into the tarmacs apron (likely to avoid the crowds.) Witnesses say there was a problem with the tail or elevators. Perhaps the investigation will make it clear.

“The Galloping Ghost” the North American Racer, piloted by Jimmy Leeward crashed in the crowd just before 4:30 p.m. during the National Championship Air Races. In the race, pilots fly an oval path around pylons. Leeward had apparently experienced a technical problem on the third lap which caused the plane to go out of control. It flew up before it nosedived.

Leeward, and two bystanders were killed, and 75 were injured. The grandstand holds 10,000 but 7,500 were in attendance.

Pilot Jimmy Leeward had a reputation of being one of Reno’s best pilots. His highly modified “Galloping Ghost” purportedly lost a elevator tab which made his sad demise inevitable. We don’t always say it in every post, but we always wish deepest heartfelt condolences to the families.

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Statement from the Reno National Championship Air Races
“The National Championship extends their deepest sympathies and condolences to all of the families involved in today’s tragic accident. The Air Races are truly one big family and our thoughts are with all of our aviation family members, immediate and extended. While we can’t confirm the number of casualties or fatalities, local hospitals and emergency response organizations are beginning to release this information.

“At this point, the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) is leading the communications and investigation of this incident and the representatives from the National Championship Air Races will not be granting any further interviews tonight or early tomorrow morning. We will work with the NTSB to hold a press update at some point tomorrow, though no time has been established. Should the National Championship Air Races have any additional information to release tonight or tomorrow morning, we will issue a statement and post this on our website.

“Those wishing to check on the status of loved ones should call 775.337.5800 or locally dialing 211. We appreciate all of the thoughts and support that have been extended from around the world this evening.”