Watch on YouTube
Shawn Ellington
Street Racing Legend — Founder of the 187 Crew, Owner of Murder Nova

Shawn Ellington

The Man Behind Murder Nova

When you think of legendary figures in street racing, one name stands out—Shawn Ellington, famously known as Murder Nova. Shawn's journey from a young boy tinkering in his father's shop to a household name in the racing world is a story of passion, perseverance, and a relentless pursuit of excellence.

Born in 1977 in Merced, California, Shawn's love for cars began at an early age. His father, Richard, owned an auto body shop, and by 1982, the family had relocated to the small town of Sayre, Oklahoma. It was here, working alongside his dad, that Shawn developed his deep appreciation for all things automotive. The rhythmic clatter of tools, the smell of fresh paint, and the art of restoring vehicles became second nature to him—a foundation that would set the tone for his future endeavors.

Fast forward to 2005, Shawn made another significant move, this time to Oklahoma City. It was here that fate introduced him to the car that would cement his legacy: a 1969 Nova. With its imposing stance and flat-black paint, the car embodied raw power and a rebellious spirit. It didn't take long for this beast to earn the name Murder Nova—a fitting title for a vehicle destined to dominate the street racing scene.

What sets Shawn apart is his unyielding commitment to innovation and performance. Over the years, the Murder Nova has undergone countless modifications, with each upgrade pushing the boundaries of speed and control. From a powerhouse engine to precision suspension tuning, every detail reflects Shawn's meticulous craftsmanship. Today, the OG Nova is one of the fastest street-raced cars in the nation, a title it still upholds on small tires.

But the Murder Nova is more than just a car; it's a testament to Shawn's determination and vision. For him, it's not just about racing—it's about the journey, the challenges, and the victories that define his life. It represents the hours spent in the garage, the late nights perfecting every bolt, and the thrill of hearing the engine roar down the track.

Shawn's story is an inspiration for anyone chasing a dream. From his humble beginnings in his father's shop to leading the 187 Crew and dominating the racing world, he's proven that hard work and passion can take you to extraordinary heights. Whether you're a die-hard racing fan or someone who appreciates a great underdog story, Shawn Ellington's journey is a reminder that legends are built, one mile at a time. Stay tuned for more stories from the 187 Crew as we dive deeper into the people who make this team an unstoppable force in the racing community.

The Details

Key Facts
Born 1977, Merced, California. Moved to Sayre, Oklahoma in 1982. Moved to Oklahoma City in 2005.
The Car
1969 Chevy Nova — flat-black paint, nicknamed 'Murder Nova'. Considered one of the fastest street-raced cars in the nation on small tires.
Social Handles
X/Twitter: @murdernova | TikTok: @187customs | YouTube: @187Customs | Threads: @murdernova
Family context
Father is Richard Ellington (co-crew member, 40+ years paint/bodywork experience). Wife is Erin Ellington ('Mrs. Murder Nova'). Son is Aiden Ellington (next-generation crew member).

Watch

Video Video