04/21/2026
The iconic wheel standing fire-rescue show truck, known as “Lil John”, was recently donated to the of The Buoniconti Fund. The one-of-one vehicle will be offered at Dana Mecum's 39th Original Spring Classic in Indianapolis on May 14, Lot # N298, with proceeds benefiting The Buoniconti Fund’s mission to support spinal cord injury research and related patient initiatives.
Built as a rolling tribute and crowd-pleaser, “Lil John” is dedicated to the 343 firefighters lost on September 11, 2001. Media coverage highlighted the truck’s show-stopping performance and community focus: The custom, wheelie-performing fire truck built by the late Dennis Coyle has entertained thousands at shows and parades. The vehicle is adorned with a memorial-themed paint scheme honoring fallen firefighters.
The 2016 custom-built truck combines classic fire-rescue styling with purpose-built performance engineering, including a 355 Chevy small-block (Speed Pro rear engine), ATI Turbo 460 transmission, SGS 8-inch planetary gearbox, and a 1999 Chevy body. The truck is capable of wheel standing and performing a 360-degree spin on its rear wheels.
Adding to the vehicle’s unique provenance, the truck’s dashboard is signed by Country Music legend Charlie Daniels.
Learn more about the vehicle and the auction at: www.themiamiproject.org/dg-fire-truck/
