On November 18, 1999, a tragic event occurred during the annual Aggie Bonfire at Texas A&M University. The bonfire, a tradition built entirely by students, suddenly collapsed at 2:42 a.m., resulting in the death of 12 individuals and injuring 27 others.
A week later, instead of lighting the bonfire as planned, a vigil was held at the site of the collapse. Over 40,000 people attended the vigil, lighting candles in remembrance. At Kyle Field, the Aggie cannon was fired 12 times, symbolizing each life lost in the tragedy.
In 2016, Kevin Robbins, a professor at the University of Texas at Austin School of Journalism, shared the story of one survivor, John Comstock, in an article called “The Thirteenth Man.” Robbins discussed the impact of the tragedy on Texas A&M during an interview with Texas Standard.
Robbins explained that the bonfire tradition had been ongoing for over a century, with the stack reaching heights of nearly 100 feet. In 1999, the stack was about 55 feet tall and collapsed without warning. The sheer weight of the timber structure caused it to lean and ultimately fall, resulting in the devastating incident.
John Comstock, a survivor from Bridgeland, TX, was one of the individuals trapped under the collapsed bonfire. He recounted the primal fears he experienced while pinned under the timbers for hours before being rescued. Comstock, the last person pulled from the rubble, earned the nickname of the “13th man.”
Comstock embraced the moniker and even had it tattooed on his back as a symbol of his survival and connection to the tragic event. Despite the trauma he endured, Comstock found meaning in being part of the Aggie community and the bonfire tradition.
The story of John Comstock and the Aggie Bonfire tragedy serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of honoring traditions while prioritizing safety and vigilance. The impact of the collapse continues to resonate within the Texas A&M community, highlighting the resilience and unity of its members in the face of adversity.
If you found this story moving and insightful, kindly consider supporting further journalism efforts by making a donation to texasstandard.org and KUT.org. Your contribution helps sustain the quality reporting and storytelling that you value. Thank you for your support.
