Tragedy befell two of the biggest desert events in the business on Saturday as both the Baja 500 and Finke Desert Race saw a bike rider die from injuries suffered in crashes. Out of respect for the victims and their families, both races’ sanctioning bodies did not name the specific riders.

The Baja accident occurred at approximately RM 324 when the rider fell; contrary to initial reports and rumors, he was not hit by a competing truck and had been struggling before crashing. The accident led to a bottleneck in the area as drivers like Justin Lofton stopped to administer help until proper medical attention could arrive.

The medical helicopter could not safely land, so the drivers worked together to put him on a backboard before bringing him to the helicopter nearby.

On Saturday evening, SCORE confirmed his passing.

“Medical personnel responded and provided assistance at the scene,” explained SCORE. “The circumstances surrounding the incident remain under review, and SCORE is working with the appropriate authorities as information continues to be gathered.

“Out of respect for the competitor, their family, and team members, no additional details will be released at this time.”

“SCORE International extends its sincere condolences to the competitor’s family, friends, fellow racers, and team.”

It was one of several accidents that occurred at around the 3 PM mark of the 500. The helicopter of Thunderstruck Motorsports, who fields the #242 Trophy Truck Spec for Bryce Swaim, went down just north of the Goat Trail; the pilot and medic onboard survived the crash and taken to Ensenada. Two head-on collisions occurred at RMs 276 and 352, the former involving a pre-runner from Sam Baldi’s chase team, requiring medical intervention.

The Finke crash happened during the first leg from Alice Springs to Finke. Northern Territory Police arrived on the scene to assist the rider until paramedics could make it.

“The Committee are deeply saddened by this loss and extend their deepest sympathies and condolences to the rider’s family and friends,” the Finke organization commented on Sunday.

“We ask all to respect the privacy of the family, friends and those who have been impacted by this incident. We appreciate the efforts of all emergency services, first respondents, officials and volunteers.

“The Finke Desert Race is providing ongoing support at both ends of the route.

“A police investigation is underway.”

Featured image credit: Max Gordon