TWO skydivers have died after a “tragic accident” during a tandem jump yesterday.
Emergency services rushed to Dunkeswell Airfield in Devon, but the pair were both pronounced dead at the scene.
Devon and Cornwall Police confirmed that families of the skydivers had been informed and investigations into the incident were underway.
They asked anyone with information on the tragedy to get in touch.
British Skydiving Chief executive Robert Gibson confirmed that a probe had been launched and his organisation was assisting authorities.
In a statement yesterday, he said: “Today British Skydiving has been notified of a tragic accident in which two jumpers lost their lives.
“Our deepest condolences go to their families, friends and the entire skydiving community.
“A British Skydiving Board of Inquiry will investigate the accident.
After the investigation is concluded, a detailed report will be sent to the coroner, police, the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA), the British Skydiving Safety & Training Committee (STC), and any other relevant organizations.
“No further details will be provided at this time. We respectfully ask for privacy for all those affected at this difficult time.”
Local charity Devon in Sight told how it had suspended its upcoming skydiving events while the investigation was ongoing.
CEO Grahame Flynn mentioned, “Having participated in skydive challenges myself in 2018 and 2022, I can attest to the thoroughness of the training provided by the team at Skydive Buzz.”
Due to the unfortunate incident, we have temporarily suspended our events that were scheduled for Saturday, June 21st, Wednesday, June 25th, and Saturday, July 5th, while the investigation is ongoing.
“Our Jump for Sight Challenges have raised significant funds for our work over the years.
“At this time our thoughts are with the instructor and student who lost their lives and their families, friends and colleagues.”
Dunkeswell Aerodrome claims to have the ‘highest tandem skydive in the UK’ – with jumps ranging from 7,000, 10,000, and 15,000 feet.
It is a popular venue for parachuting, taking place on Wednesdays to Sundays and Bank Holidays almost all year round.
Spectators are able to watch jumpers from the airfield’s Aviator coffee bar and restaurant.
At 839 feet above sea level, Dunkeswell is the UK’s highest licenced airfield.
A spokesperson for Devon and Cornwall Police said: “Emergency services were called to the area of Dunkeswell Aerodrome at around 1pm on Friday 13 June following concerns for the welfare of two people.
“It was reported that they were skydivers.
“They were sadly both confirmed deceased at the scene and their families have been informed.
“Scene guards remain in place and enquiries are ongoing by the relevant agencies.
“If anyone has information which may assist us, please call 101 or report via our website quoting 50250150193.”
