Tragic Wingsuit Accident Claims Life of Veteran Skydiver in Devon
An experienced skydiver has tragically lost his life during a wingsuit jump at Dunkeswell Aerodrome near Exeter in Devon. The incident occurred shortly before 1pm on Saturday, sending shockwaves through the close-knit skydiving community.
Victim Identified as Highly Experienced Skydiver
The skydiver has been identified as 49-year-old Chas McNeil from Swindon. According to reports from Devon Live, McNeil was regarded as "highly experienced" with an impressive record of over 10,000 jumps to his name. The tragic accident happened during what should have been a routine wingsuit flight at the popular aerodrome location.
Heartfelt Tributes Flood Social Media
Tributes to Chas McNeil have been pouring in across social media platforms, with friends, family, and fellow skydivers expressing their grief and sharing memories of the beloved veteran. The veterans' charity Phoenix Heroes, where McNeil served as one of their first Regional Captains, posted an emotional tribute on social media.
"Today we heard the devastating news that Chas McNeil sadly lost his life yesterday whilst skydiving," the charity wrote. "This is so difficult to write as Chas has been with us from the beginning of Phoenix Heroes. He helped grow our veteran community and passed on his skills. A good friend, skilled angler, a veteran with a passion for skydiving."
The tribute continued: "One of the good ones in life, his presence would always bring a smile, always happy to help others and approached life at fast pace. We will miss you Chas, it hurts so much and our thoughts are with your family. R.I.P Chas, a true legend."
Community Support Through Fundraiser
A GoFundMe appeal has been launched to support the McNeil family during this difficult time. The fundraiser, which aims to raise £1,800, states: "Please help and support the McNeil family in this time, this collection is to celebrate all what Chas was to us all. What can you say about this MAN, all who knew him, loved him. He was always there at the front leading the way, smiling no matter how bad things got."
Skydive South West Issues Statement
Skydive South West, which operates at Dunkeswell Aerodrome, released a statement confirming the tragic incident. The organization expressed deep sadness over the loss of "an experienced licensed skydiver and wingsuit coach with over 10,000 jumps logged."
"Our thoughts and heartfelt condolences are with their family, friends, and the wider skydiving community at this incredibly difficult time," the statement read. "As a small, family-run drop zone, this loss has affected us profoundly and personally. The UK skydiving community is close-knit, and when we lose one of our own, it is felt across the entire community."
Investigation Underway
The club confirmed they have followed established procedures by contacting both the Police and British Skydiving, the governing body for the sport in the UK. Both organizations are now conducting independent investigations into the cause of the accident. Skydive South West emphasized that their staff continue to assist with the investigation by providing all necessary information.
The statement urged the public to refrain from speculation, noting that "public conjecture can quickly lead to misinformation being shared, which is deeply distressing for the family, friends, and those directly affected." They added: "In a world where we can be anything, please choose to be kind. Our focus right now is on supporting the family, our staff, and our community as we process this loss."
Previous Tragedy at Same Location
This tragic incident marks the second fatality at Dunkeswell Aerodrome in recent months. Last June, the location witnessed another devastating accident when 48-year-old mother Belinda Taylor from Totnes and her 30-year-old instructor Adam Harrison from Bournemouth lost their lives during a tandem jump. That incident occurred when their parachutes failed to deploy properly.
Following that tragedy, operations were handled by Skydive Buzz Ltd, which subsequently entered liquidation in August 2025. Skydive South West was established by former Skydive Buzz staff members, and a spokesperson has previously stated that the current operation has "no connection" to the former owner of Skydive Buzz.
The skydiving community now mourns another loss, remembering Chas McNeil not just as an experienced skydiver, but as a beloved friend, veteran, and community member whose passion for both skydiving and helping others touched many lives.
