March 27, 2026 — The Road 2 Recovery Foundation has established a dedicated fundraising effort to support off-road athletes Janey Lee and Kylie Walton following a devastating vehicle fire that occurred during a pre-run ahead of the San Felipe 250 on March 24, 2026.
During their 3rd day of prerunning in the Baja California desert, Lee and Walton were operating their off-road Prerunner vehicle when a sudden mechanical failure—believed to be related to the fuel system—triggered an explosion beneath the vehicle. Within seconds, the vehicle was engulfed in flames.
The situation quickly became life-threatening when Janey Lee became trapped inside the vehicle due to a jammed seatbelt, as fire rapidly spread through the cockpit. Without hesitation, Kylie Walton remained inside the burning vehicle, enduring intense flames and heat while working to free her teammate.
Through bravery and determination, Walton successfully released the restraint and Lee immediately exited the vehicle to stop drop and roll and extinguish the flames on her. Kylie prevented a tragic outcome.
Both athletes sustained serious burn injuries:
• Janey Lee suffered Stage 2 and Stage 3 burns to her legs, shoulder, and arm
• Kylie Walton sustained Stage 2 and 3 burns to her hands during the rescue
Emergency responders provided immediate on-site care before both athletes were airlifted to a specialized burn center in the United States, where they remain in stable condition as they begin a long and difficult road to recovery.
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Road 2 Recovery Steps In
The Road 2 Recovery Foundation is mobilizing support to assist both athletes and their families during this critical time. Funds raised will go directly toward:
• Medical expenses and specialized burn treatment
• Rehabilitation and recovery services
• Living expenses during their recovery period
• Ongoing care needs as they heal
“Moments like this remind us how quickly lives can change—and how strong this community truly is,” said Road 2 Recovery. “Kylie’s courage and selflessness saved a life. Now it’s our turn to come together and support both of these incredible athletes as they fight their way back.”
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