Jet Funny Car Driver Jerry Gannon Perishes from Injuries Sustained in Crash at Atlanta Dragway

Jerry Gannon, 50, of Franklin Furnace, Ohio, died at approximately 2 a.m. June 2nd at Grady Memorial Hospital in Atlanta as a result of injuries sustained in a crash at Atlanta Dragway, Commerce, GA.

Gannon was driving the Gustin Racing Jet-powered funny car when the car suddenly veered left and made contact with both retaining walls before catching fire. The cause of the crash is being investigated.

Gannon had been driving jet funny cars for the Franklin Furnace, Ohio-based Gustin Racing team since 1993. Pro Jet, the jet car racing sanctioning body, recognized Gannon with "Rookie of the Year" honors in 1993. During his career Gannon was the driver with the most wins in the jet car ranks.

Beyond his talent as a driver, Gannon was involved in all aspects of the race car operations as a welder, fabricator and painter. "This is a great loss, not only for Jerry's family, friends, and the staff of AutoStar Productions and Gustin Racing, but also for the entire motorsports community. Jerry was the best natural race car driver in the business". Stated Roger Gustin, team owner and well-known drag racer.

Gannon's hobbies included riding motorcycles and 4-wheelers, and spending time on his boat.

Jerry Gannon's wife Shonnie and daughter Alisha were by his side at Grady Memorial Hospital.