A Night of Horror: Remembering the 2008 Plane Crash that Changed Lives
In September 2008, a private plane carrying Blink-182 drummer Travis Barker and DJ AM, Adam Goldstein, crashed during takeoff, leaving a scar on the lives of those involved.
The group, including Barker’s assistant Chris Baker and bodyguard Charles Still, were headed to Los Angeles after a performance. As the plane sped down the runway, witnesses noticed sparks, a sign of impending disaster. The pilot’s attempt to stop the takeoff failed, and the jet crashed, resulting in a fiery explosion.
Tragically, the pilot, co-pilot, Baker, and Still lost their lives. Barker and Goldstein miraculously survived, escaping the wreckage with severe burns.
Local resident William Owens witnessed the scene, describing how the two men desperately tried to extinguish the flames engulfing their bodies. Both were rushed to the hospital, enduring extensive skin graft surgeries.
In the aftermath, Goldstein spoke about the harrowing experience, recalling the chaos and his efforts to help Barker. Goldstein, a recovering addict, returned to work, but the emotional wounds remained. He credited faith in God for his survival.
However, the road to recovery proved difficult. Just weeks before the crash’s anniversary, Goldstein was found dead in his apartment. The circumstances pointed to a possible relapse, leaving friends to wonder if the trauma of the crash had been too much to bear.
Barker, deeply affected by the loss of his friends, vowed never to fly again. It wasn’t until years later, with the support of his wife, Kourtney Kardashian, that he was able to overcome his fear and board a plane again.
In 2024, Barker celebrated taking 30 flights with his wife, a testament to his healing journey. While he admits he still dislikes flying, he refuses to let fear control his life. He credits his wife’s love for his ability to tour with Blink-182 again.
