Renowned stunt legend Alex Harvill lost his life on Thursday after smashing into a dirt mound at the Moses Lake Airshow in Washington.
The 28-year-old biker from Ephrata crashed in a terrifying way during a world record practice jump attempt at an air show.
Alex was thrown over his bike’s handlebars and tumbled forward before stopping. He later passed away due to his injuries.
In a statement the Grant County Sheriff’s Office said:
“Grant County Coroner Craig Morrison confirms the death of 28-year-old Ephrata resident Alex Harvill who died after crashing his motorcycle while performing a practice jump at the Grant County International Airport this morning.
“His family has been notified.
“Coroner Morrison’s staff will conduct an autopsy on Friday to confirm the cause and manner of death, which is normal procedure.
“Our deepest sympathies go out to Alex’s family, friends and loved ones.”
The fatal practice stunt was reportedly the first he performed of the day. It was a 150-foot-high jump.
In a video of the accident, he can be seen riding his bike before jumping off a ramp into the air.
He did not, however, make it to the other side and crashed.
He was immediately taken to hospital but died of his heavy injuries.
The Air show offered its condolences and vowed to donate all the cash from his jump to help pay for the medical expenses before he passed away.
Moses Lake Airshow said:
“We regret to report today at our first event of the airshow – the Guinness World Record Jump Attempt, Alex Harvill was injured during his warm-up before the jump and has been taken to hospital.”
They added:
“Our hearts are with Alex and his family, and wish him a speedy recovery. All proceeds from today’s jump will be donated to Alex to contribute to his medical expenses.”
Alex was a fearless stuntman who set a world record in 2013 when he jumped from a dirt ramp 297 feet away.
Before his record jump, he told the media he had been riding since he was 4 years old.
It was also reported that he and his wife recently welcomed a second child into their life. In addition to his stunt work, he also competed in a number of sports, including the Canadian MX National Series, AMA Motocross, AMA Supercross, and Arenacross.
Rest In Peace, Alex!
For CBS New’s report on the story please click below.
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