Mythbusters host Jessi Combs, known as “the fastest woman on four wheels”, tragically died on Tuesday, August 27th. She was 39 years old. Combs died during an attempt to break the land-speed record. Combs previously set the women’s land-speed world record while driving the North American Eagle, a long jetlike car capable of generating over 45,500 horsepower, in 2013. Combs set the record by driving an average of 398 miles per hour. At the time of her fatal accident, Combs was attempting to drive faster than 512 miles per hour, with the goal of hitting 619 miles per hour. The accident occurred in a dry lake bed in Alvord Desert in Oregon.
A few days before the accident, Combs posted on Instagram that she was making another attempt at the record, saying, “People say I’m crazy. I say thank you”
In addition to her incredible racing abilities, Combs was known for hosting various programming. Combs became a host on Mythbusters in 2009 when she filled in for fellow host Kari Byron, who was on maternity leave. She went on to host a number of vehicle related series including, Overhaulin’, Extreme 4×4, and All Girls Garage. Combs co-hosted a video series for Autoblog, called The List. Autoblog posted a tribute to Combs on their YouTube page.
Combs’ family released a statement on her passing,
Jessi was known for her bright smile, positivity, and tenacious pursuit of the fulfillment of her dreams. Her drive was infectious, and she served as a role model for young Girls, and Women around the world. People that loved her and followed her became family, all bonded together by adventure and passion. Her fans adored her, and she lived to inspire them. Jessi’s most notable dream was to become the fastest woman on Earth, a dream she had been chasing since 2012. Combs was one of the rare dreamers with the bravery to turn those possibilities into reality, and she left this earth driving faster than any other woman in history.
Terry Madden, a member of Combs’ team and her boyfriend, posted a message with a video on social media in remembrance of Combs and warning fans to be wary of scammers who may try to profit from her untimely passing.