Lafayette Community Grieves the Heartbreaking Loss of Savannah Mason, 23, After Tragic Boilermaker Special Accident
LAFAYETTE, IN — A wave of profound sadness has swept over Lafayette and the Purdue University community following the tragic death of 23-year-old Savannah Mason, who was killed in a devastating accident involving Purdue University’s iconic mascot vehicle, the Boilermaker Special. The fatal crash occurred around 4 p.m. on Thursday, April 24, 2025, along U.S. Highway 52 near Wyandotte Road in Tippecanoe County.
According to the Tippecanoe County Sheriff’s Office, Savannah was involved in a collision with the Boilermaker Special, a beloved symbol of Purdue pride that frequently appears at university events, parades, and athletic games. Emergency responders rushed to the scene upon receiving reports of the accident. Despite immediate life-saving efforts by paramedics, Savannah was pronounced dead at the scene.
Authorities have stated that the investigation into the crash remains ongoing, with preliminary findings indicating it was a tragic accident. No signs of impairment were reported, and both Purdue University and local officials are cooperating fully with investigators.
A Bright Light Gone Too Soon
Savannah Mason was a vibrant young woman, known for her kindness, infectious laugh, and deep compassion for others. A graduate of Jefferson High School, she had recently embarked on her professional journey, working locally and actively involved in volunteer efforts throughout Tippecanoe County. Friends and family describe Savannah as a person who “lit up every room she walked into” and “had a heart bigger than the world itself.”
“She was always the first to offer a helping hand and never expected anything in return,” said family friend Melissa Andrews. “Savannah had dreams of starting her own business one day. She was determined, smart, and so full of life.”
Savannah’s parents, Tom and Lisa Mason, released a statement thanking the community for the outpouring of support:
“Our beautiful Savannah brought immeasurable joy to our lives and the lives of so many others. Though her time with us was far too short, her love, laughter, and spirit will never be forgotten. We ask for privacy as we grieve this unimaginable loss.”
Purdue University Community in Mourning
In a statement, Purdue University expressed its deep condolences to the Mason family and to all affected by the tragedy.
“We are devastated to learn of the tragic accident involving the Boilermaker Special and the passing of Savannah Mason,” said Purdue President Mung Chiang. “Our hearts go out to her family, friends, and the broader Lafayette community during this heartbreaking time.”
The university also announced plans to conduct a full review of the incident and pledged to offer support services to students and staff impacted by the tragedy.
The Purdue Reamer Club, the student organization responsible for maintaining and operating the Boilermaker Special, also shared their heartbreak in a social media post:
“We are deeply saddened by the loss of life and extend our sincerest sympathies to the family and loved ones of Savannah Mason. We are cooperating fully with authorities and grieving with the entire community.”
Community Rallies Together
In the wake of Savannah’s death, the Lafayette community has come together to support her family. A vigil is being organized at Jefferson High School’s football field, where Savannah was once a proud member of the cheer squad. Hundreds are expected to attend to honor her life, share memories, and offer prayers.
A GoFundMe page created by friends of the Mason family to help cover funeral costs and memorial expenses quickly surpassed its initial goal, with donations pouring in from across Indiana and beyond.
“Savannah touched so many hearts,” wrote one donor. “Her kindness and bright spirit will continue to inspire us all.”
Local leaders, including Lafayette Mayor Tony Roswarski, spoke about the loss, calling it a “heartbreaking reminder of how fragile life is.” He urged the community to continue lifting up the Mason family and supporting one another in this difficult time.
Final Arrangements
Funeral arrangements for Savannah Mason are currently underway, with a public memorial service being planned for next week. Her family has indicated they intend to create a scholarship fund in Savannah’s name to help local students pursue higher education — a lasting tribute to her passion for helping others reach their dreams.
In the days and weeks ahead, Lafayette will mourn the loss of a young woman whose bright future was cut tragically short — but whose memory, love, and spirit will remain deeply rooted in the hearts of all who knew her.