Tragic Accident on U.S. Highway 52 in Tippecanoe County Involving Purdue University’s Boilermaker Special VII Claims Life of Woman, Leaves Two Purdue Reamer Club Members Injured

TIPPECANOE COUNTY, IN – April 24, 2025

A tragic accident unfolded on Thursday, April 24, 2025, on U.S. Highway 52 in Tippecanoe County, Indiana, involving one of Purdue University’s most beloved symbols, the Boilermaker Special VII. The crash resulted in the death of a woman driving a passenger vehicle, while two members of the Purdue Reamer Club, who were piloting the iconic Purdue University train, sustained minor injuries.

The collision occurred in the early afternoon, around 1:30 PM, when the Boilermaker Special VII, a steam locomotive-style vehicle that serves as Purdue University’s official mascot, was traveling along the highway. It was being piloted by two members of the Purdue Reamer Club, a student organization that operates the Boilermaker Special at various university events, including football games and parades.

A Fatal Collision

According to initial reports from the Tippecanoe County Sheriff’s Department, the passenger vehicle, a sedan, was traveling in the opposite direction when it collided head-on with the Boilermaker Special VII. The impact of the crash caused extensive damage to the sedan, leading to the tragic death of the female driver, who has yet to be publicly identified pending notification of next of kin. Emergency responders rushed to the scene, but the woman was pronounced dead shortly after their arrival.

In contrast, the two members of the Purdue Reamer Club, who were aboard the Boilermaker Special, suffered only minor injuries and were treated at the scene before being transported to a local hospital for precautionary care. Authorities confirmed that both individuals were wearing seatbelts and were not seriously hurt despite the severity of the crash.

Purdue University Responds

The news of the accident has sent shockwaves through the Purdue University community, where the Boilermaker Special is a cherished symbol of school spirit and tradition. The Boilermaker Special VII, a custom-built vehicle resembling a historic steam locomotive, has been a part of Purdue’s tradition for decades, often making appearances at athletic events and local celebrations.

Purdue University released a statement expressing sorrow for the incident and extending condolences to the family and friends of the deceased woman. “We are deeply saddened by today’s tragic accident. Our thoughts and prayers are with the family of the individual who lost their life, and we are grateful that our students in the Reamer Club are safe,” the university said in the statement. “We will continue to cooperate fully with local law enforcement as they investigate the cause of the crash.”

The Purdue Reamer Club, which operates the Boilermaker Special, also issued a statement expressing their grief. “The safety of our members and the public is always our top priority. We are thankful that our members are okay, but we are heartbroken by the loss of life and offer our deepest condolences to the family affected by this tragedy.”

Investigations Underway

The Tippecanoe County Sheriff’s Department has launched a full investigation into the circumstances surrounding the crash. Authorities are focusing on several aspects, including the speed and condition of both vehicles, potential driver impairment, and the road conditions at the time of the incident.

“We are still in the early stages of the investigation,” said Sheriff Mark Jenkins. “Our team is working diligently to piece together all the details of the crash. We are in contact with Purdue University and the Purdue Reamer Club, and we will continue to gather evidence to determine the cause of this tragic accident.”

Authorities have also confirmed that there were no signs of alcohol or drugs involved with the driver of the Boilermaker Special VII, but the investigation is still ongoing.

Community Reactions

News of the accident has left both Purdue University students and residents of Tippecanoe County in shock. The Boilermaker Special is an iconic part of the local community, often seen at parades, tailgates, and various events that bring the university and the surrounding area together. Its presence on U.S. Highway 52 on Thursday was a stark reminder of the risks associated with travel, even when familiar symbols of local pride are involved.

Local residents have taken to social media to express their condolences to the family of the deceased woman. “This is such a devastating event,” said Hannah Mitchell, a Purdue student. “The Boilermaker Special is such an important part of our school’s history. It’s hard to think that something so tragic could happen involving something we all hold dear.”

Meanwhile, the Tippecanoe County community has rallied around the Purdue Reamer Club members involved in the crash. Several community members have reached out to offer their support, and local businesses have begun organizing fundraisers to assist with medical expenses for the two Reamer Club members, though both are expected to recover fully.

Next Steps

The Boilermaker Special VII has been temporarily grounded while investigations continue. Purdue University has assured the public that the vehicle will undergo a thorough inspection to ensure its safety before it is cleared for future use.

“We take the safety of our students and the public very seriously,” said Purdue University President Dr. Mung Chiang. “Once we have more information, we will work with law enforcement to determine what steps need to be taken to prevent future tragedies.”

In the meantime, local authorities have asked anyone who may have witnessed the crash or has additional information to come forward to assist in the ongoing investigation. Tips can be submitted to the Tippecanoe County Sheriff’s Department at (765) 423-9300.

As the community grapples with the aftermath of this devastating accident, the loss of the woman’s life has been a somber reminder of the fragility of life on the roads, while the Purdue Reamer Club and the university’s extended community continue to offer their support to those affected.

For more updates, follow local news coverage and official statements from Purdue University and local authorities.