Top fuel driver, Antron Brown, was involved in a racing accident that killed an unidentified female spectator at the Firebird International Raceway in Chandler, Ariz. on Feb. 21., just 12 days after Brown and his 800-horse power Matco Dragster, that is capable of reaching speeds of 333 mph, visited Cerritos College.

“It’s horrible to see anyone getting killed by having fun, you can only imagine how (Brown) must have felt,” said Automotive Department Chair Tony Baron.

During an elimination race, Brown’s car swerved left and onto its side hitting, the retaining wall and exploding into flames.  One of the Dragster’s wheels was then sent airborne and hit a woman who was sitting in the crowd.

According to Alia Maisonet, a spokeswoman for the Gila River Indian Community who was first on scene, said, “The woman was airlifted to an area hospital for treatment, where she later died.”

“It felt like the back end just dropped out and the car started pitching end over end,” Brown said in an interview with SpeedTV.com, “I saw a little burst of flame come around my head, and I saw sparks.”

In a statement Brown said, “My heart and prayers go out to the woman’s family and friends. Our focus is on the family’s well being during this very challenging time. We also ask of our fans and supporters to keep the family in your prayers.”

During Brown’s visit to Cerritos College he talked to students about the importance of staying in school and learning a trade.

“He gave a bit of a pep-talk to students while he was here,” said Baron.

Abel Ponce, a part-time auto instructor said, “I had a class when (Brown) was here but it’s like anything it’s a shock when something like that happens.”