Lot of comments here are accusing the "hackers" of negligence, but do not forget the writer, camera crew, and editors of WIRED were fully in control of the demonstration. This happened in the context of journalism, not security research. Blame WIRED if you think they screwed up, not the folks behind the computer.
It was up to WIRED to ensure the safety of the demonstration, and evidently they failed given this passage,
After narrowly averting death by semi-trailer, I managed to roll the lame Jeep down an exit ramp
Seems to me they should have at the very least had a chase car trailing the demo car with a sign, flashing lights, or flags to alert nearby drivers.
I think people are quick to single out the researchers because there is more at stake when researchers act recklessly. When a journalist does something reckless, it's a problem with that journalist. The Constitution protects other journalists continuing to do what they do.
When a hacker does something reckless, it's usually painted as a problem with all hackers. Which then fuels calls for draconian laws which would hinder future research.
I think it's because the article clearly names the two researchers, while WIRED is a faceless organization. It's a lot easier to get mad and blame the one with a face.
It was up to WIRED to ensure the safety of the demonstration, and evidently they failed given this passage,
After narrowly averting death by semi-trailer, I managed to roll the lame Jeep down an exit ramp
Seems to me they should have at the very least had a chase car trailing the demo car with a sign, flashing lights, or flags to alert nearby drivers.