The Untold Truth About Jessi Combs’ Death: A Legacy of Speed and Inspiration

Jessi Combs, known as the “fastest woman on four wheels,” was an iconic figure in the automotive world, celebrated for her incredible skills behind the wheel and her vibrant personality.

Her journey from a passionate car enthusiast to a television star and record-breaking racer is both inspiring and tragic.

While her untimely death in 2019 shocked fans and the automotive community alike, Jessi’s legacy continues to inspire many.

This article delves into the circumstances surrounding her death, her remarkable achievements, and the lasting impact she has made on the industry.

Born in South Dakota, Jessi’s fascination with cars began at a young age.

She grew up surrounded by the automotive culture, and her father’s influence instilled in her a love for building and racing.

Jessi’s competitive spirit and hands-on approach to life led her to pursue a career in automotive fabrication after initially considering a path in design.

She attended Wyotech, where she honed her skills in custom automotive fabrication, upholstery, and metalworking.

Upon graduating in 2014, Jessi quickly made a name for herself in the automotive community.

Her first major project involved building a car from the ground up for the Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) show, which garnered attention and recognition in the industry.

Jessi’s talent and charisma soon caught the eye of television producers, leading to her first appearances on shows like Overhaulin’ and Extreme 4×4.

Jessi’s television career flourished as she became a household name, showcasing her expertise and passion for cars.

She later joined the cast of MythBusters and became the main host of All Girls Garage, where she continued to break stereotypes in a male-dominated industry.

However, Jessi’s true passion lay in racing.

She competed in various off-road events, achieving remarkable success, including becoming the national champion of the Ultra4 Stampede and winning the Rally Aicha des Gazelles.

Despite her accomplishments, Jessi was determined to break the land speed record set by Kitty O’Neil in 1976.

This record, which stood at 512.71 miles per hour, became Jessi’s ultimate goal.

After years of preparation and several attempts, she finally achieved her dream on August 27, 2019, but tragically lost her life in the process.

On that fateful day in August, Jessi was attempting to break the women’s land speed record in her jet-powered car, the North American Eagle, in Oregon’s Alvord Desert.

Tragically, the car experienced a catastrophic failure when the front wheel assembly collapsed while traveling at approximately 550 miles per hour.

Witnesses reported that the car dropped onto the desert lake bed before bursting into flames.

The official cause of death was determined to be blunt force trauma to the head, which Jessi sustained just before the vehicle caught fire.

The investigation into the crash revealed that despite the safety measures in place, the failure was likely caused by striking an object in the desert.

This unfortunate incident led to the abandonment of the North American Eagle project, leaving Jessi’s dream unfulfilled but her legacy intact.

In June 2020, the Guinness World Records officially recognized Jessi Combs as the fastest woman on four wheels, with an average speed of 522.

783 miles per hour achieved during her last runs in the Alvord Desert.

This posthumous honor solidified her place in history, fulfilling her long-standing ambition.

Jessi had not only broken records but also inspired countless individuals, particularly women, to pursue their passions in automotive and racing fields.

Jessi’s impact extended beyond her racing achievements.

She co-founded the Real Deal Revolution, an organization aimed at empowering women in automotive-related fields, including welding and fabrication.

Her mission was to break down barriers and encourage more women to enter and thrive in these traditionally male-dominated industries.

Following her death, the Jessi Combs Foundation was established to continue her legacy.

The foundation aims to inspire and support women pursuing careers in automotive and industrial fields through scholarships and mentorship programs.

In September 2019, an exhibition titled Jessi Combs: Life at Full Speed was held at the Petersen Automotive Museum in Los Angeles, showcasing her life and achievements.

The foundation’s mission is to create pathways for women to succeed in trades and to honor Jessi’s philosophy of living life to the fullest.

Through this initiative, dozens of women have received financial support to further their education and careers in automotive-related areas.

Jessi Combs’ story is a powerful reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of pursuing one’s passions.

Her dedication to her craft, her competitive spirit, and her desire to inspire others have left an indelible mark on the automotive community.

Although her life was tragically cut short, Jessi’s legacy continues to inspire women and men alike to chase their dreams, break down barriers, and redefine what is possible.

In reflecting on Jessi Combs’ life and career, we are reminded of the impact one individual can have on many.

Her achievements in racing and her commitment to empowering women in the automotive industry ensure that her spirit lives on, encouraging future generations to embrace their passions fearlessly.

Jessi Combs may no longer be with us, but her legacy is far from over.

Through the foundation established in her name and the inspiration she provided to countless individuals, Jessi’s influence will continue to be felt in the automotive world and beyond.

As we remember her remarkable journey, we celebrate not only her achievements but also the spirit of determination and resilience she embodied.

Jessi Combs remains a true icon, and her story serves as a beacon of hope for anyone daring to pursue their dreams.