Tyler “Flip” Priddy, a beloved star of Street Outlaws, tragically passed away on May 28, 2013, at age 31 in his Yukon, Oklahoma home, just weeks before the show’s premiere. The exact cause of his death remains undisclosed, fueling speculation about whether it was a self-inflicted gunshot, an accident, or related to personal struggles. His legacy endures through his iconic 1980 Chevy El Camino and the heartfelt tributes from his Street Outlaws family. This article explores Flip’s life, net worth, marriage, and the mystery surrounding his untimely death, offering fresh insights into his impact.
Who Was Tyler “Flip” Priddy? Biography, Age, and Early Life
Tyler Gene Priddy, born on November 30, 1981, in Chickasha, Oklahoma, was a passionate drag racer whose charisma and skill made him a standout on Street Outlaws. Growing up in a car-loving family, Flip developed an early affinity for muscle cars, often joining his childhood friend Justin “Big Chief” Shearer to watch drag races on their bikes. His love for speed shaped his life, leading him to modify his 1980 Chevy El Camino, affectionately dubbed “The Old Slut” for its eclectic parts.
After graduating from Putnam City High School, Flip worked as a parts warehouse manager at Warren Caterpillar, using his salary to fund his racing passion. His net worth at the time of his death was estimated at over $1 million, largely from his racing career and Street Outlaws role. Flip’s infectious personality—often seen with a beer in one hand and a cigarette in the other—made him a fan favorite.
Comprehensive Biography Table
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Tyler Gene Priddy |
| Nickname | Flip |
| Date of Birth | November 30, 1981 |
| Age at Death | 31 |
| Birthplace | Chickasha, Oklahoma, USA |
| Education | Hinton Elementary, Putnam City High School |
| Occupation | Parts Warehouse Manager at Warren Caterpillar, Reality TV Star, Drag Racer |
| Net Worth (Estimated) | Over $1 million |
| Spouse | Morgan Amber Priddy |
| Children | Tovey Gene, Remey J, Dresdyn Rinot, Bennett William Edward |
| Notable Vehicle | 1980 Chevy El Camino (“The Old Slut,” later “Elco”) |
| TV Show | Street Outlaws (Season 1, 2013) |
| Date of Death | May 28, 2013 |
| Place of Death | Yukon, Oklahoma |
| Cause of Death | Undisclosed (Speculated gunshot wound) |
| Funeral | June 1, 2013, Chisolm Heights Baptist Church, Mustang, Oklahoma |
| Parents | Gene Priddy, Glenda Long Priddy |
| Siblings | Chris Priddy, Ethan Priddy |
| Grandparents | Letha and Calvin Brown, Jack and Lola Faye Long |
How Did Flip from Street Outlaws Die? The Mystery of His Death at Age 31
The question, “What happened to Flip from Street Outlaws?” remains unanswered with certainty. Flip died on May 28, 2013, at his home in Yukon, Oklahoma, at the age of 31. Despite rampant speculation, neither his family nor the Street Outlaws team has confirmed the cause of death. Rumors suggest a self-inflicted gunshot wound, possibly linked to depression or personal struggles, including unverified claims of marital issues. Others propose it was an accidental shooting while handling a firearm. The lack of an official statement has kept Flip’s death shrouded in mystery, respecting his family’s privacy.
A 2019 Reddit post by a fan reflected the community’s sentiment: “The hurting will never stop… I’m sorry I wasn’t the friend you needed that day,” quoting Big Chief, highlighting the emotional toll on his peers. The absence of clarity has fueled online discussions, but the Street Outlaws team has consistently honored Flip’s memory without delving into specifics, emphasizing his legacy over speculation.
Flip’s Marriage, Family, and Personal Life
Flip was married to Morgan Amber Priddy, his longtime partner, at the time of his death. The couple shared four sons: Tovey Gene, Remey J, Dresdyn Rinot, and Bennett William Edward. Morgan commemorated Flip with a skull and wings tattoo, symbolizing her grief and love. While rumors of infidelity surfaced post-death, Morgan’s social media posts, like one advocating against sweeping suicide under the rug, suggest a deeper personal struggle. Flip’s dedication to his family was evident, as he balanced his salary from Warren Caterpillar with his racing passion to provide for them.
Reflecting on Flip’s life, his marriage and fatherhood were central. His sons, now pursuing their own interests, inherited his love for cars, with Morgan noting their enthusiasm for racing on social media. This personal angle underscores Flip’s role as a family man, often overshadowed by his racing persona.
Flip’s Legacy on Street Outlaws and the El Camino’s Enduring Fame
Flip’s 1980 Chevy El Camino, a symbol of his ingenuity, remains a cornerstone of his legacy. After his death, Big Chief stored the car before passing it to Chris “Kamikaze” Day, who renamed it “Elco.” The vehicle, upgraded and raced on Street Outlaws, continues to honor Flip’s memory. In a 2021 throwback episode, the show paid tribute to Flip, with Big Chief saying, “He made everything shine,” capturing his vibrant spirit.
The El Camino’s durability defied Big Chief’s “ticking time bomb” jest, winning races and cementing Flip’s reputation as a skilled racer. Fans on platforms like Reddit and X continue to celebrate Flip, with posts highlighting his competitive edge and camaraderie.
Insights and Unique Perspectives: Flip’s Impact Beyond the Track
Beyond his racing prowess, Flip’s story resonates as a cautionary tale about mental health in high-pressure subcultures like street racing. The speculation around his death underscores the stigma surrounding mental health, particularly among men in competitive fields. A 2023 study by the American Psychological Association noted that men in high-risk occupations are less likely to seek mental health support, a pattern that may have applied to Flip, given unconfirmed reports of depression.
Flip’s influence also extends to the Street Outlaws franchise, which grew to 15 seasons and spawned spin-offs like Street Outlaws: No Prep Kings. His early contribution helped legitimize street racing’s appeal, paving the way for stars like Ryan Martin. The show’s success, with over 1 million viewers per episode at its peak (Nielsen ratings, 2018), owes a debt to Flip’s authenticity.
Honoring Flip: Tributes and Ongoing Influence
The Street Outlaws community keeps Flip’s memory alive through tributes, like the burnout procession at his funeral, captured on YouTube. His gravestone, etched with the El Camino’s image, stands at Hinton Cemetery, a testament to his passion. Fans can explore his story further on Wikipedia or follow Discovery Channel’s updates.
Flip’s death at age 31 left a void, but his net worth, marriage, and racing legacy endure. His story reminds us to cherish connections and address mental health openly, ensuring his light continues to shine in the Street Outlaws world.
