After many bizarre and heartbreaking events (George Hanson's (Nicholson) death, a psychedelic LSD trip), Wyatt/Captain America (Fonda) and Billy's (Hopper) long journey is brought to an end, when Wyatt realises their search for freedom, was a spiritual failure. While on their way to Florida, a couple of rednecks in a pickup truck pull up beside them. The passenger points a shotgun at Billy and taunts him. He then shoots Billy. Wyatt turns around to help Billy. The rednecks turn around, and shoot Wyatt off his bike as he drives towards them to get help for Billy. The shell hits the gas tank on Wyatt's bike, causing it to explode.