Jimmy "The Kid" White Taken To Stony Brook Hospital After Fiery Demo Crash
July 5, Riverhead, NY--- Walter Johnston reports that Jimmy White, after contact with Mike Rommeny in a Demo Derby, was taken to the hospital, after a fiery crash at Riverhead Raceway. When contact was made, both cars erupted into flames. White got out of his car on his own, fell to the ground, and rolled, attempting to put out the flames.
Rommeney was taken into the ambulance to be checked out. It appeared that he was only being checked out before being released, and didn't seemed to be in serious condition.
White's condition was not known at this time (9:37pm).
Both drivers are Enduro veterans, with Rommeney now driving in the weekly Blunderbust division.
After the crash, the Riverhead Town Fire Marshall went out to the track to do an investigation. The Fire Marshall was already there at Riverhead to supervise a fireworks show.
Rommeney was taken into the ambulance to be checked out. It appeared that he was only being checked out before being released, and didn't seemed to be in serious condition.
White's condition was not known at this time (9:37pm).
Both drivers are Enduro veterans, with Rommeney now driving in the weekly Blunderbust division.
After the crash, the Riverhead Town Fire Marshall went out to the track to do an investigation. The Fire Marshall was already there at Riverhead to supervise a fireworks show.
Yeah, I saw this happen.
It looked tragic.
I would like to know his condition do you think they will release it?
I really am worried.
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The latest word we have is that he is resting comfortably in the Stony Brook burn unit, and is allowed visitors.
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Thank you! Its nice to know that hes okay.
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The latest word is that Jimmy is recovering okay, but will be spending a considerable amount of time in the hospital for treatment of his burns, some of which are 3rd degree. Visitors are encouraged, but must understand he may be in treatment and you might have to wait. Also, be considerate of his family, as they should have priority on visits.
We wish Jimmy well, and are happy to hear he will participate in racing activities once more after he is well enough to do so.
On a side note, everyone considering entry into future demo-derby's should seriously think about using all available safety gear (fire retardant clothing, etc.) before getting into a demo car. Jimmy's experience should be a wake up call to everyone to reassess their views on safety over all. Just because it's not required by the rules doesn't mean you shouldn't use what's available to protect yourself.
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While I was not at this derby, I can tell you, in 30 years of doing demo derby, I have NEVER seen a car go up like that. While I'm all for safety, there has to be a reason why the car went on fire like that. In the previous demo, his car also caught on fire.
I am more than willing to help out ANYBODY thinking about entering a demo for the first time. Walter Johnston has my email address or I can talk on the phone.
Also, has anyone heard from the Fire Marshall on why he thinks the car went up?
Hey, Jim, hope you get well soon. If you need help, shoot me a pm. And remember, no "SMOKING IN THE BOYS ROOM"!!!!
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