Four people sustained injuries following the crash of a small plane at the Pomona Dragstrip during NHRA Finals on Sunday, November 17, 2024. The incident, which happened shortly before noon, drew significant attention and led to immediate emergency responses.
According to reports from the Los Angeles County Fire Department, the crash occurred around 11:10 AM near Fairplex Drive, adjacent to the endpoint of the runway at the popular drag race venue, also known as the 'Pomona Fairplex'. The aircraft involved was identified as a single-engine Piper PA-32, which was attempting to make a landing at Brackett Field Airport, situated just adjacent to the dragstrip.
Eyewitnesses described the scene as chaotic, with the plane hitting multiple parked vehicles, including at least one camper. Fortunately, no spectators watching the races were harmed during the crash. The Pomona Police Department confirmed later on social media platforms, known formally as X (previously Twitter), the details of the incident and notified followers of the injuries sustained.
The four individuals aboard the aircraft were taken to nearby hospitals. Thankfully, their injuries were reported to be non-life-threatening, ranging from minor to moderate severity. Two of them were described as being in critically stable condition.
Following the crash, the NHRA (National Hot Rod Association) paused the racing events scheduled for the day. Racing resumed around 1:00 PM after authorities assessed the situation and no longer deemed it hazardous for the remaining participants and attendees.
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has launched an investigation to ascertain the precise cause of this unfortunate incident. Local authorities are working alongside the FAA to gather all necessary information about the crash, including details on the flight's origins and intended destination before it met with trouble over the dragstrip.
While the wreckage was still being examined and the officials managed the crash scene, many fans remained nearby as they awaited the resumption of the highly-anticipated racing events. The NHRA had to make significant adjustments to their schedule. Nevertheless, the majority of the attendees expressed gratitude for the quick response from emergency personnel and the luck involved since no spectators or bystanders were injured.
Hoping to address this situation swiftly and effectively, the NHRA issued statements extending thoughts and prayers for those involved, underscoring their commitment to safety for both racers and fans. For racing enthusiasts, the NHRA Finals represent one of the season’s highlights, and seeing such chaos disrupt the event highlighted the unpredictability of motorsport.
Officials from the Pomona Fairplex, the venue of the dragstrip, promised full cooperation with the FAA as they investigate every detail surrounding the crash. It’s expected they will release statements as more information becomes available.
While many are concerned about the shock and injury suffered during the incident, the community spirit shined through as racing fans rallied around during this unforeseen interruption of their beloved event.
