A California nurse from San Diego miraculously survived a helicopter crash during the Baja 500 race in Mexico.
Katie Lowe, who was a part of the medical support team, was flying in the chase chopper when the vehicle crashed down following a refueling mishap.
The incident occurred on June 6, during the Baja 500’s annual four-day tournament that lasted from June 3rd to June 7th this year.
Baja 500 is a Mexican off-road motorsport race that takes place on the Baja California Peninsula and is considered to be one of the most legendary desert races in the world. The race measures to be right under 500 miles and drivers are met with rough road conditions such as deep silt beds.
“There were strong winds. I believe that played a huge factor in them spinning,” one of the witnesses recounted to NBC San Diego.
Lowe worked as a former medic and as a current emergency room nurse.
“I just have never felt that before, not knowing whether or not I was going to live or die so it was pretty scary and I’m just grateful to be alive. I felt like I couldn’t take a deep breath because or catch my breath because every breath I took was so severe,” she said.
Lowe sustained multiple injuries such as a labrum tear, compression fractures on her T7 and T8 vertebrae, and a rotator cuff tear.
The pilot also sustained injuries to his forehead and sustained a broken nose.
Many in her community have offered support such as the San Diego Fire Surf Club.
“A former medic in our system and current ED Nurse, Katie is an extraordinary human being. Her kindness, work ethic, and genuine thought for others is unmatched. If you’re wondering how you can help support, a meal train was created and is available at the link in our bio,” the club posted on Instagram.
The cause of the incident is still yet to be determined but Lowe said she is overwhelmed with the love and support received.
