Who Is Chris Raschke? Bonneville Crash Victim and Land Speed Racing Legend

Chris Raschke, a 60-year-old veteran land speed racer, tragically died in a high-speed crash at the Bonneville Salt Flats during the annual Speed Week event. Raschke was driving the famous Speed Demon streamliner when he lost control at nearly 280 mph, leading to a fatal accident 2.5 miles into his run.

A Passionate and Respected Racer

Chris Raschke was a well-known figure in the land speed racing community. He was celebrated for his passion for speed and his hands-on approach to racing. A California native, Raschke was a long-time member of the Southern California Timing Association (SCTA) and a regular competitor at Bonneville for many years.

He was closely connected to the Speed Demon, a sleek, record-breaking streamliner capable of exceeding 400 mph. Raschke was respected not only for his fearless driving but also for his mechanical skills, often working directly with his team to tune the vehicle.

Keith Pedersen, a race director and friend, told reporters, “He’s a big part of the racing community and will be sorely missed.” Raschke held several class records at Bonneville and inspired many younger racers through his dedication and friendship.

The Speed Demon and Its Record-Breaking History

The Speed Demon is one of the most iconic vehicles in land speed racing. It holds multiple class records, including a 2010 mark of 428.79 mph. Raschke was piloting the latest version of this streamliner, aiming to set a new record during the 2025 Speed Week.

The Bonneville Salt Flats is famous for its flat, salt crust surface, which provides ideal conditions for racing at extreme speeds. However, weather and salt conditions can be unpredictable and sometimes dangerous.

On August 3, 2025, Raschke’s run was going strong with a speed of nearly 280 mph before the crash. The accident happened shortly after he started, and despite rapid medical response, Raschke passed away due to his injuries.

Safety Concerns and Legacy

The crash has raised new concerns about safety at Bonneville. The salt flats have been deteriorating due to mining and climate effects, making the track less stable over time. This has made the high-speed racing even riskier.

Raschke’s death is sadly not the first fatal accident at Bonneville. Similar crashes, including those in 1970, 2016, and 2020, highlight the dangers of racing at speeds above 200 mph.

The SCTA continued Speed Week starting August 4, showing the sport’s resilience but also reminding everyone of its risks.

Chris Raschke is remembered as a fearless and skilled racer whose passion for land speed racing inspired many. His death is a huge loss to the community, shining a spotlight on the challenges and dangers of pushing the limits at Bonneville.