Fans Injured at Heber Demolition Derby After Drive Shaft Flies into Stands

Three fans were hospitalized after being struck by a drive shaft that entered the stands during a demolition derby in Utah on Saturday night.

According to a report from Xoel Cardenas of KSL, a collision between a truck and another vehicle created such a force that it dislodged the drive shaft and sent it into the stands. The incident delayed the derby 30 minutes as medical professionals attended to those injured, and all safety precautions were followed.

“We have the cars inspected,” said Director of Parks and Recreation Tom Bonner. “We have professional inspectors, mechanics that inspect these cars to make sure these cars are following the rules and that they are safe to be in the arena. It just is an unfortunate accident.”

Liam and Sonya Duke were among the fans injured. Liam suffered a sore foot, while Sonya needed surgery on a broken ankle and a cut to her leg.

“It was kind of chaotic because everyone just like rushed to us to see what happened,” Liam Duke said. “I was just in so much shock. I didn't know I was hit until like three seconds later.”

Another unnamed person was taken to the hospital with undisclosed injuries. Bonner said an investigation will take place to ensure another incident does not happen.

“Until we investigate what happened, if it could happen again, if there are measure to take, then we'll take those measures to protect the safety of the spectators,” Bonner said, per the Salt Lake Tribune.

It appears there was no protective netting in place at the Heber City venue.

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