Traumatic Brain Injury Claims Life of Popular Drag Racer

By Mary Mitchell

Published on March 26, 2007

Medlen, 33, was driving a Funny Car at Gainesville Raceway in Florida on March 19 when one of the tires blew out, causing him to lose control of the vehicle and crash into a concrete barrier.

Medlen was taken to the University of Florida’s medical center, where surgery was performed to relieve pressure caused by the swelling of his brain. Surgeons could not control the intracranial pressure, and Medlen never regained consciousness.

By the end of the week, Medlen’s family decided to have the life support systems discontinued, saying their decision was made in accord with Eric's wishes.

Medlen, of Oakdale, California, was one of drag racing’s most popular drivers and a consistent top finisher in races.

It is estimated that there have been at least 390 racing-related deaths at racetracks in the United States since 1990.

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