Colossal Misfortune: Beloved Young Star Dies in Tragic Rally Crash
In New Zealand, a heartbreaking accident during a rally event claimed the lives of a young driver and his co-driver.
The victims were 17-year-old rally driver Brooklyn Horan and his 35-year-old co-driver Tyson Jemmett.
According to police reports, the crash happened during the Shangri-La Street Rallysprint in Paparoa when their car veered off a gravel road and plunged into a flooded stream. Emergency crews pronounced both deceased at the scene.
MotorSport New Zealand confirmed Brooklyn was behind the wheel at the time of the accident.
While New Zealand drivers must be at least 16 to obtain a license, younger racers can compete under special rules. MotorSport New Zealand’s junior driver program allows participants aged 12 to 16 to hold a competition license and race in sanctioned events.
The organization emphasized that many young drivers take part in these competitions and that a thorough investigation into the crash is underway.
“The event occurred on Shangri-La Street in Paparoa, which was closed to the public for the rally under local authority,” MotorSport stated.
“It’s too early to determine the cause, but the road did not appear to be hazardous or unsafe.”
Wayne Christie, CEO of MotorSport New Zealand, expressed his condolences:
“Our hearts go out to the families and friends of Brooklyn and Tyson, as well as everyone connected to the Shangri-La Street Rallysprint. This tragic loss will deeply affect the motorsport community. We will be providing support to those impacted in the days ahead.”
Tributes poured in on social media. World Rally Champion Hayden Paddon wrote on X (formerly Twitter):
“What a tragic loss. Two wonderful souls taken far too early. Tyson was a devoted family man and motorsport enthusiast, and Brooklyn Horan was a rising rally star with an incredibly bright future. Your journey was cut short, but your impact was already significant.”
Winger Motorsport shared, “Our deepest sympathies go out to Brooklyn and Tyson’s families from all of us at Winger Motorsport.”
1Eighty Racing added, “Such natural talent lost too soon. Our thoughts are with your family, Brooklyn, and you’ll always be remembered on the track.”
Hodgson Motorsport said, “We are heartbroken to hear about Brooklyn’s passing while doing what he loved most. Rallying brings incredible highs and devastating lows. Brooklyn was a kind and joyful soul whose smile brightened every gathering. He will never be forgotten.”
Brooklyn’s partner, Lucy, who is expecting their first child, will face the coming days without him. Friends and former teammates have launched a fundraiser to support Lucy and the baby.
