Tragedy always strikes when people least expect it. And fans around the world got the shock of their lives when the news of Travis Barker and DJ AM’s tragic plane crash surfaced.
Travis Barker & DJ AM’s Plane Crash
On Saturday morning, news outlets began reporting on the horrific plane crash that left 4 people dead and Blink-182 drummer Travis Barker and DJ AM in critical condition.
According to reports, Travis, AM, Travis’s assistant Chris "Lil Chris" Baker and bodyguard Charles “Che” Still boarded a Lear Jet in South Carolina on Friday. Air traffic controllers said that they immediately saw sparks coming from the plane’s wheels during take off and alerted fire rescue crews.
The jet crashed and burned about a quarter mile from the end on the runway.
The Associated Press is now reporting that the “crew attempted to reject the takeoff but was unable to stop the aircraft before it departed the runway.”
“We turned to the jet to try and see if there was anything we could do, but immediately, there was nothing anyone could do,” William Owens, a witness to the crash, told CNN affiliate WIS. “I felt ill or sick to think that these lives were snuffed out at that point.”
Reports are confirming that Travis and AM’s quick decision to jump from the burning wreckage is what ultimately saved their lives. According to witnesses, Barker was seen standing in the road trying to extinguish his pants.
Although 4 people (Barker, Still, the pilot and co-pilot) died, Travis and AM are said to be on the road to recovery. In a statement released to the Associated Press on Sunday (September 21), Dr. Fred Mullins said that both men are being treated in a Georgia hospital for the injuries.
According to Dr. Mullins, Travis was burned on his torso and lower body while DJ AM suffered from burns on his hands and parts of his head and face.
Stars React To The Tragedy
After the crash, celebrities came out in perviously unseen numbers to offer their support. From Jermaine Dupri to Shanna Moakler, the response has been overwhelming.
“There are not enough words to express how thankful we are for the outpouring of love and support we have received during this very difficult time. We can only ask for prayers as we heal and mourn the loss of our dear friends who we considered part of our family. Our lives will be changed forever.” – Shanna Moakler, Travis’ former wife and mother of his two children.
“It’s a seriously sad situation. He’s doing good—but I really hate to see my friends got through this.” – Jermaine Dupri to US Magazine
“I still can't believe he is gone. He was a person that was always smiling, always happy and always cracking jokes. He was not just Travis' best friend - he was everybody's best friend. He was one of the coolest, nicest and caring people I knew. He was always trying to make sure everybody was OK. It's a tragedy when you lose people like this. All I keep thinking about is his son. He looks just like his father and already is a star.” – Lil Jon to MTV News
“Lil Chris was like a brother to me - I loved him like a brother and he loved me like one. His memory is forever implanted into my heart. There will not be a day I live where I don't think of my brother. Travis, I love you too, homie. See you soon. Your pain is my pain.” – The Game to MTV News
The Chris Baker Memorial Fundand the Charles Still Memorial Fundhave been established for the benefit of Chris’ and Charles’ families. Donations may be sent to the respective funds at the following address:
Memorial Fund1840 South MillikenOntario, CA 91761
Erin T. McMillon - Erin T. McMillon is working hard at making a name for herself in the industry. After graduating from The College of Notre Dame of ...
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