A car accident in Sayre, Pennsylvania, left a popular Derby Community man, his girlfriend, and his best friend dead early Tuesday morning.
Racer and Owego, New York resident Brett Relyea, his girlfriend Melanie Schnurbusch, and his best friend of many years, Art Bidlack, were fatally wounded in an incident that happened on River Rd., Sayre, PA Tuesday, April 23, 2024.
Brett was a father of two, a son, a friend, and a teammate. The residents of NY and Northeast derby PA, Owego, and Nichol communities have shared tributes on various social media platforms. since the news of the tragic incident
Anthony wrote: “I was very sad to hear the news that Brett Relyea passed away this morning. I knew him from the demolition derby world, but when we talked, it usually ended up being about business and being business owners, and I considered him a friend. Brett is easily an icon of the demolition
derby sport. He was not only one of the best demolition derby builders and drivers of a generation, but one of the best promoters with his KOOS shows, and one of the sport’s biggest fans.
Brett Relyea would travel all over the country to run in so many different shows, and people would travel from all over the country to watch him run. And whether you were in the stands or driving, you had your eye on Brett when he was on the track.
Brett was a kind-hearted, and fearless competitor. He dedicated his time and money to making the sport of demolition derby better for all, and to bring joy to countless people’s lives.
In my Mount Rushmore of North East demolition derby drivers, Brett would be my 1st pick. You don’t get the nickname “Champ” in a sport unless you are one of the best. Brett made his mark in this world, and will never be forgotten. RIP Champ Brett Relyea #00, Antony wrote.
