An experienced skydiver who tragically died while performing a wingsuit jump with a friend has been pictured and identified as Chas McNeil. The 49-year-old from Swindon, Wiltshire, was killed in the incident at Dunkeswell Aerodrome in Honiton, near Exeter, just before 1pm on Saturday.
A Veteran Skydiver with Extensive Experience
Mr McNeil was described as highly experienced, having completed an impressive 10,000 jumps throughout his skydiving career. He was using his own personal parachute equipment for the jump at the time of the accident. Skydive South West, which operates out of Dunkeswell Aerodrome, confirmed these details, noting that he had been skydiving with a friend when the tragedy occurred.
Third Fatality at the Airfield in Nine Months
This incident marks the third fatality at Dunkeswell Aerodrome in the past nine months. In June last year, another tragedy claimed the lives of mother-of-four Belinda Taylor, 48, and instructor Adam Harrison, 30, when their parachute failed to open. The recent death of Mr McNeil has renewed concerns about safety at the facility, though investigations are ongoing.
Emergency Response and Police Investigation
Devon and Cornwall Police were called to the aerodrome just before 1pm on Saturday, February 28, following concerns for the welfare of a male skydiver. Emergency services attended the scene, where Mr McNeil was pronounced dead. His family has been informed, and scene guards remain in place as enquiries continue by relevant agencies.
Heartfelt Tributes from Friends and Family
Devastated friends and family have paid tribute to Mr McNeil, highlighting his positive impact on the community. A spokesperson from the veterans charity Phoenix Heroes shared emotional words, stating, 'Today we heard the devastating news that Chas McNeil sadly lost his life yesterday whilst skydiving.' They described him as a good friend, skilled angler, and veteran with a passion for skydiving, who helped grow their veteran community through initiatives like the Veteran Carp Angling Community.
His mother Karol expressed the family's heartbreak, saying, 'As a mother and father our hearts are heartbroken at the loss of our son Chas But gives us strength to see all the love and support for everyone that knew him.' The community has been left in shock, remembering Mr McNeil as someone whose presence always brought a smile and who was always happy to help others.
