An experienced skydiver with over 10,000 logged jumps has tragically died following a wingsuit jump in Devon, according to the operator of the site. The incident occurred at Dunkeswell Aerodrome near Honiton, prompting a significant emergency response and an ongoing investigation by authorities.
Emergency Response and Police Statement
Emergency services were called to Dunkeswell Aerodrome at approximately 1pm on Saturday due to concerns for the welfare of a skydiver. Upon arrival, they discovered a 49-year-old man who was pronounced dead at the scene. Devon and Cornwall Police have confirmed that the man's family has been informed of his passing, though formal identification procedures are still underway.
Operator Confirms Skydiver's Experience
Skydive South West, which operates from Dunkeswell Aerodrome, issued a detailed statement on social media confirming the victim was an experienced licensed skydiver and wingsuit coach. The company described him as having logged over 10,000 jumps and noted he was using his personal parachute equipment along with an advanced wingsuit during the jump, which he was performing with a friend.
The statement expressed profound sadness, stating: "We are deeply saddened to confirm that an experienced licensed skydiver and wingsuit coach with over 10,000 jumps logged, tragically lost their life whilst carrying out a wingsuit jump with a friend." The operator emphasized that this loss has affected them personally, describing themselves as a small, family-run drop zone.
Investigation and Community Impact
In accordance with standard procedures for clubs affiliated with the governing body British Skydiving, Skydive South West immediately contacted both the police and British Skydiving to initiate independent investigations into the cause of the accident. The company's staff are fully cooperating with these investigations, providing all necessary information to authorities.
The operator made a heartfelt plea to the public, asking people to refrain from speculation about the incident. "Public conjecture can quickly lead to misinformation being shared, which is deeply distressing for the family, friends, and those directly affected," the statement read. They added: "In a world where we can be anything, please choose to be kind."
Previous Tragedies at the Same Location
This tragic incident follows previous fatalities at Dunkeswell Aerodrome. In June of last year, two skydivers—48-year-old mother-of-four Belinda Taylor from Totnes, Devon, and 30-year-old Adam Harrison from Bournemouth, Dorset—died while skydiving in the same area. These consecutive tragedies have highlighted the risks associated with the sport, even for experienced participants.
The skydiving community, described by Skydive South West as close-knit, is mourning this latest loss. "The UK skydiving community is close-knit, and when we lose one of our own, it is felt across the entire community," the operator's statement noted. Their current focus remains on supporting the victim's family, their staff, and the broader community as they process this devastating event.
