In a heartbreaking revelation that has sent shockwaves through the automotive and reality TV world, Counting Cars, the fan-favorite show celebrating custom builds and car culture, is mourning the untimely loss of ten cherished cast members. These were not just employees or side characters — they were the heartbeat of Count’s Customs, shaping the show’s legacy with their s𝓀𝒾𝓁𝓁, passion, and personalities. Their sudden departures have left fans, crew, and the custom car community reeling.
Scott Jones, the quiet but dependable backbone of the shop, was celebrated for his unwavering work ethic and signature dry humor. His absence had already been felt after leaving the show, and his passing from health issues dealt a heavy emotional blow. Shannon Iikow, the motorcycle specialist whose builds were nothing short of artistry, shocked the community with her unexpected death, leaving a void in the shop that cannot be filled.
Kevin Mack, 𝘤𝘩𝘪𝘭𝘥hood friend of Danny Coker and the steady hand managing the shop, passed peacefully after battling a long-term illness, leaving a legacy of loyalty and dedication that set the standard for all employees. The loss of Uncle Lou, mentor to Horny Mike, and Big Ryan, the detailer with a perfectionist’s eye, added layers of grief, reminding everyone that the magic of Count’s Customs came from real people with big hearts.
Tragedy continued to strike with Billy the Builder, remembered for his humility and incredible craftsmanship, lost in a motorcycle accident, and Robbie “Colorbomb” Martinez, a painter whose vibrant artistry brightened every build, succumbing too soon to complications from an aneurysm. Jesse J. Rod Hernandez, a devoted shop assistant, tragically passed in another motorcycle accident, underscoring the fragility of life and dreams.
Even loyal clients who became family were not spared. Doc Larry Menddees, beautifulKenny “Boom Boom” Franklin, the sound technician whose work brought every engine roar and custom exhaust to life, was suddenly taken by a stroke.
These ten losses form a painful tapestry of grief that has touched every corner of the Counting Cars community. Each individual contributed something irreplaceable — from the finesse of custom paint jobs to the behind-the-scenes effort that made every episode shine. Their stories are a poignant reminder that behind the roaring engines and gleaming chrome, real people with real dreams make it all possible.
As fans continue to celebrate the legacy of Count’s Customs, let us honor the memories of these ten remarkable souls, whose lives and talents left an indelible mark on the automotive world. Their passion, dedication, and spirit will forever resonate in every car built and every episode aired — a tribute to lives well-lived and craftsmanship unmatched.
