“Tragic Crash Involving Purdue’s Boilermaker Special Claims Life of 20-Year-Old Driver”
LAFAYETTE, Ind. — The Purdue University community is grappling with the devastating loss of 20-year-old Madison Cook, who died Thursday afternoon in a tragic crash involving the university’s iconic mascot vehicle, the Boilermaker Special.
What Happened
At approximately 4 p.m. on April 24, 2025, the Boilermaker Special—a custom-built vehicle resembling a Victorian-era steam locomotive—was traveling northbound on U.S. Highway 52 in Tippecanoe County, near Wyandotte Road. According to the Tippecanoe County Sheriff’s Office, the vehicle crossed the median and collided head-on with a southbound passenger car. The driver of the passenger car, identified as a woman in her mid-20s, was pronounced dead at the scene.
Two Purdue students were aboard the Boilermaker Special at the time of the crash. Madison Cook, 20, of Noblesville, Indiana, was the driver, and Taylor Melton, 22, of Rockport, Indiana, was the passenger. Both were transported to a local hospital with non-life-threatening injuries and have since been treated and released.
Cause of the Crash
Investigators believe a mechanical issue—specifically, a possible tire malfunction—caused the Boilermaker Special to veer off course. An eyewitness reported seeing the vehicle’s left front tire blow out before it crossed the median and struck the oncoming car. The Tippecanoe County Sheriff’s Office is leading the investigation, with assistance from the Indiana State Police Commercial Vehicle Division. Toxicology tests are being conducted on both drivers as part of the ongoing inquiry.
About the Boilermaker Special
The Boilermaker Special is Purdue University’s official mascot vehicle, designed to resemble a 19th-century steam locomotive. It is legally permitted to travel on public roads and highways and is often used to accompany the university’s football team to away games. The vehicle is capable of reaching speeds up to 75 mph.
Community Response
Purdue University has expressed its condolences following the incident. A university spokesperson stated, “We can confirm our Boilermaker Special was involved in a serious multi-vehicle accident in Tippecanoe County on April 24. Our thoughts are with all those impacted by the incident.”
The Tippecanoe County Sheriff’s Office continues to investigate the cause of the crash. Authorities are examining all potential mechanical issues related to the incident.