On Saturday, November 14, a Boy Scout leader was fatally injured when he was struck by a rocket at a BSA launch. Mike Bentley was a 50 year old resident of Highland and a long time scout leader. He was at a BSA event called Rocket Rave when the accident occurred. The event was held at Giant Rock OHV area, near Morongo, California.
This tragedy has shocked the local scouting and rocketry communities.
We currently do not have any details beyond what has been published in the news media.
The long standing policy of ROC is to conduct our launches in a safe and prudent manner, and observe the requirements of the NAR and Tripoli safety codes, NFPA standards, and all applicable regulations. We also will implement more conservative policies where the Board of Directors finds them prudent. As the facts of this tragic event become available, we will review our launch practices to ensure we continue to provide a safe environment to enjoy and promote our hobby. We always welcome questions, suggestions, and healthy discussion of our policies and practices. To contact the Board, please use the contact form at: http://www.rocstock.org/contact-us
We do ask that our members and associates refrain from posting rumors and speculation on any social media regarding the accident.
Mr. Bentley is survived by his wife and four sons. An account to accept donations to help the Bentley family with funeral and other expenses has been set up at: https://www.gofundme.com/mikebentley
Rocketry Organization of California 