TV special on Punkin Chunkin canceled

A Science Channel special featuring the Cape Region’s World Championship Punkin Chunkin has been removed from the schedule out of respect for a woman injured during the event.

The show was expected to air Saturday, Nov. 26, on The Science Channel, but spokesman Paul Schur said the decision was made to pull the show.

“In light of the unfortunate incident at the Punkin Chunkin event on Nov. 6, Science Channel will not air Punkin Chunkin as originally planned,” he said. “We are sending our hopes and prayers for a full recovery to the injured woman, her family and loved ones.”

The 39-year-old producer, who has not been identified, was critically injured when a piece of an air cannon exploded into the air and struck her in the head as it fell. A witness said she was wearing a hard helmet and was walking in an area for competitors and press only, when she was hit. Police said a trap door from an air cannon flew into the air and struck her in the head. 

The woman worked for Sharp Entertainment, which had contracted to film the three-day event for The Science Channel. Sharp Entertainment had no comment. Delaware State Police have no new information on the woman’s condition. She was initially taken to Nanticoke Hospital and then flown to Christiana Hospital in critical condition.

Frank Payton, president of the Punkin Chunkin organization, said he had no comment. Punkin Chunkin returned to Wheatley’s Farm in Bridgeville following a two-year hiatus after a lawsuit forced a change in venue.