Update: #about - As of September 20, 2011, there are 11 confirmed deaths from the crash at the Reno Air Races on Friday afternoon, September 16. Seven people, including the pilot, were killed at the scene and the others have died at a Reno area hospitals. According to the Reno Gazette-Journal, two people are still missing.
The remaining two days of the 48th Reno National Championship Air Races and Air Show have been canceled due to a tragic accident on Friday afternoon. At about 4:20 p.m., the P-51 Mustang Galloping Ghost piloted by Jimmy Leeward crashed into the box seats area in front of the grandstands at Reno-Stead Field, killing Leeward. At least two spectators on the ground were later confirmed dead at a hospital in Reno. News reports from KTVN2 and the Reno Gazette-Journal indicated that over 50 people were injured and taken to hospitals in Reno and Sparks. Some are reported to be in critical condition. When more information becomes available, these numbers may change. Check with local news sources for additional details.
This is the worst accident in the 48 year history of the Reno Air Races and the first crash in which spectators have been injured and killed. Prior to today, 16 deaths have occured at the Air Races, including pilots and aerobatic performers.
Talk has already surfaced about ending the Reno Air Races. It has always been acknowledged to be a dangerous event, but is it just too risky to continue? What do you think.
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