Expert: Eddie Solomonson - 11/8/2001

Question
I suspect that he was a drinker and did drugs and that this had something to do with the motorcycle crash that took his life. Can you offer any info into the circumstances of the crash, and what kind of injuries he had. I know that a truck supposedly crossed over in front of him.  Also do you know if his death contributed to the heroin addiction of his brother Greg? By that I mean was Greg so devastated to the point where he turned to heroin?

I think that Duane was an enormous talent. His recorded work makes me wonder what he would be doing today. I think he would be regarded in the same class as Clapton. I'm suprised that there are no books about Duane's life and death.  

Answer
Hi Tommy,
 Your suspicions are right. Duane did drink and did drugs. However, the coroner's report said there were no traces of alcohol in his system.
 Again, you're correct. As Duane was driving his Harley down a road, a flatbed truck in the oncoming traffic made a left in front of Duane. Everything was OK until the truck just stopped in mid turn. Duane tried to go around but hit something on the back of the flatbed.
 As for injuries, at first, the only visible injuries were some scrapes and scratches. Later that night at the hospital, Dr. Charles Burton examined Duane and brought him into emergency surgery where the extent of Duane's injuries finally came to light. Duane did not regain consciousness, probably head injuries. His chest had collapsed and there were massive internal injuries, including a ruptured coronary artery and a severely damaged liver.
 Duane survived anothere three hours and was pronounced dead at 8:40 PM.
 Gregg was pretty much into the "heavy" stuff at the time. I'm sure Duane's death didn't help matters any with Gregg and drugs.
 We both agree that Duane was an enormous talent and it's funny that you mention what he might be doing today. This is a constant topic between me and some friends.
 I too feel he and Clapton were in the same class. They were both impressed with each other. The first time Clapton saw Duane and ABB, he told Duane, "We've got to play" and hence, Layla. Duane has said in interviews that he was most proud of his work on Layla than anything else. That's some mighty high parise from both Duane and EC.
 Well, there is a book that does cover Duanes life and his untimely death: "Midnight Riders." The story of the Allman Brothers Band. Pick it up. It's very interesting and the book chronicles Duane and Gregg from when they were young boys. An intersting read.
 I hope I shed some light for you about Duane and thanks for using ALLEXPERTS.COM.

            Eddie Solomonson