Passing of Tim Samaras, Paul Samaras, and Carl Young

[David Rundle]

I'm heartbroken beyond words. Tim was a visionary inventor, and a gifted chaser who never underestimated the power of the winds, and learned to leverage that force to obtain data that might still be hidden away. From the pressure drops in the vortex, to high-speed lightning photography and hail damage assessments for Boeing's new prototype aircraft, severe weather was his life, and Tim leaves a remarkable and inspirational legacy.

Peace and comfort be with the families, and with us all as we morn Tim, Paul, and Carl.

 

[Bob Hartig]

When I first heard the news on Facebook, I hoped and half expected it would prove to be just one more sick rumor. But that response is no longer an option. I didn't know these men, but I certainly knew of them, and Tim in particular. The reality of their deaths is starting to sink in. What a terrible thing to happen.

 

[Martin North]

Very sad to read this awful news. Sincere condolences to the Samaras & Young families.

 

[edward oneal]

Did not know them personally, but knew their work was to save the lives of others. Very sad to here this, prayers for all.

 

[Rick Schmidt]

This is very shocking and sad news. Tim was brilliant and an excellent chaser. I got to see him at the 2006 Chaser-con. My thoughts and prayers go to his family. Is it known if he was doing what he loved best----placing pods in the path? If so, he gave his life for scientific research. I am still amazed at the videos he produced from those pods.

 

[Patrick Martin]

Tremendous loss at so many different levels. Tim was a true pioneer and by far one of the smartest and most intelligent people I have ever had the privilege of knowing. On top of that, he was one of the nicest and most down to earth people ever. Incredibly sad day.

 

[John Fertsch]

Condolences to the families.

 

[truechampion]

RIP Tim Samaras. Condolences for the Samaras and Young families.

 

[Dan Rupnow]

Unreal. My condolences to the families.

 

[Jake Orosi]

This is very sad news indeed; my thoughts are with all personally touched by this loss.

 

[Winston Wells]

I too am shocked and saddened beyond belief at this terrible news. Tim's discoveries and accomplishments - particularly those found in his video documentaries and National Geographic articles - helped to spark my curiosity with severe weather, and they were foundational in shaping me as a chaser.

May he, his son, and Carl Young rest always in peace. My thoughts are with their families.

 

[Shawn Schuman]

Unreal. I think they're probably the last people I'd ever expect this to happen to. What a terrible loss.

 

[Lee Smith-Whaley]

RIP guys. I'm incredibly saddened to hear this news, especially about this trio. Having met them in the field, and at the storm chasing convention it was amazing at humbling they were about what they did.

 

[Karen St John]

Chase in Peace, Guys. My deepest sympathies for their families.

 

[David Wolfson]

Unbelievable. The most heartfelt condolences from me and my wife.