Madison Cook Obituary-Death News; Madison Cook, Purdue University Student dies in Boilermaker Special Accident
Tragedy struck Tippecanoe County, Indiana, on Thursday afternoon when Purdue University’s iconic train mascot, the Boilermaker Special, was involved in a fatal crash on U.S. 52. The accident claimed the life of one individual and has left the Purdue community in shock and mourning.
According to a news release from the Tippecanoe County Sheriff’s Office, the Boilermaker Special, traveling northbound on U.S. 52, crossed the median after a “possible tire malfunction.
” The vehicle struck a southbound car head-on, resulting in the immediate death of the car’s sole occupant. The identity of the victim has not yet been released, pending notification of the family by the coroner’s office.
The Boilermaker Special, known for its distinctive train-like appearance, was being driven at the time by Madison Cook, a 20-year-old Purdue student from Noblesville, Indiana.
Alongside Cook was 22-year-old Taylor Melton, another Purdue student from Rockport. Both students were transported to a nearby hospital following the accident. They were treated for minor injuries and released later that day, according to a statement from Purdue University.
“As part of the ongoing investigation, toxicology tests will be conducted for both drivers,” the sheriff’s office announced. Investigators are also looking into any additional mechanical failures that may have contributed to the crash.
The Indiana State Police Commercial Vehicle Division is assisting with the examination of the Boilermaker Special and its components to determine whether mechanical issues beyond the reported tire malfunction played a role.
The Boilermaker Special VII, introduced in 2011, has served as Purdue University’s official mascot for more than a decade. Maintained and operated by the Purdue Reamer Club, the Special is a beloved symbol of school pride.
It travels extensively, making appearances at away football games and other events, and is proudly known as the world’s fastest, heaviest, and loudest collegiate mascot.
News of the crash spread quickly across the Purdue community and beyond, drawing an outpouring of grief and support for all involved. University officials expressed deep sadness over the accident and extended condolences to the family of the deceased individual. Purdue’s administration has pledged to support the ongoing investigation and to provide counseling resources to any students or staff impacted by the tragedy.
“The Purdue family is heartbroken by this tragic event,” the university said in a written statement. “Our thoughts are with the family of the individual who lost their life, as well as with our students who were involved. We are fully cooperating with authorities as they investigate what happened.”
For many students and alumni, the Boilermaker Special is much more than just a mascot it represents decades of tradition, pride, and spirit. Seeing it involved in such a devastating incident has left many feeling stunned. Members of the Reamer Club, who devote countless hours to maintaining and operating the Special, have expressed their sorrow and support for the victim’s family, as well as for Madison Cook and Taylor Melton.
As the investigation continues, officials are asking any witnesses who may have seen the crash or the events leading up to it to come forward. Authorities hope a thorough examination of the vehicle and the crash site will provide clear answers in the coming days.
In the meantime, Purdue’s focus remains on healing, supporting those affected, and honoring the memory of the life lost. A community vigil is reportedly being discussed to bring together students, staff, and the broader community to mourn, reflect, and stand in solidarity during this difficult time.
The Boilermaker Special has long been a symbol of resilience, strength, and unity values that the Purdue community now leans on as it faces this heartbreaking loss.
