SHOCKWAVE Jet Truck Driver Chris Darnell Killed in Fatal Accident

The SHOCKWAVE Jet Truck, famously known as the world’s fastest jet-powered semi, crashed during a high-speed run on Saturday at the Battle Creek Field of Flight Air Show in Battle Creek, Michigan. The driver, Chris Darnell, was killed in the accident.

According to Chris’ father and fellow jet truck driver Neal Darnell, the accident was a result of a mechanical failure on the jet truck. Neal’s full statement is below:

During today’s SHOCKWAVE Jet Truck performance at the Battlecreek Field of Flight Airshow an accident occurred as a result of a mechanical failure on the Jet Truck. Regretfully Chris Darnell the driver and my youngest son passed away from his injuries at approximately 1:01 pm.

No one else was involved.

I will post more information as we get it. We will provide Funeral Arrangements sometime this week.

We are so sad. Just one month ago Chris turned 40. He was so well loved by everyone who knew him. Chris so loved the Air Show business. He was “Living the Dream “ as he said.

- Neal Darnell

Chris had a lifelong background in motorsports, both in racing as well as event promotion and production. He and his dad Neal spent much of their time each year on the air show circuit, driving both the SHOCKWAVE and Flash Fire Jet Trucks for millions of fans both young and old.

The remainder of Saturday’s Battle Creek Field of Flight Air Show was cancelled, and Sunday’s and Monday’s shows will go on as planned. Our thoughts and prayers go out to Chris’ friends, family, and all of those involved during these tough times.