Two licensed skydivers died following a midair collision during an organized event in Lake Elsinore, California. The Riverside County Sheriff's Department reported that deputies responded to an air emergency late Friday morning. Both individuals were transported to a local hospital with critical injuries, where they were later pronounced dead.
The incident occurred at Skydive Elsinore, a facility located approximately one hour from San Diego and Los Angeles. According to a statement from the company, the two participants were experienced skydivers visiting from out of town specifically for the organized event.
Skydive Elsinore reported that the free-fall portion of the jump and the deployment of the parachutes proceeded normally. However, as the divers prepared for landing, they collided at an altitude of approximately 150 feet above the ground. The company stated that the impact caused their parachutes to become entangled, leading to the fall.
The concrete impact on the skydiving industry and local enthusiasts includes the launch of an investigation. Skydivers and facility operators will notice the results of this inquiry, as the company noted there was no evidence of equipment malfunction, suggesting the focus may remain on the circumstances of the midair maneuvers. For the public and residents near Lake Elsinore, the event highlights the physical risks associated with high-altitude sports, even when performed by experienced and licensed individuals.
The effects of the collision may include safety reviews by skydiving organizations or changes to landing pattern protocols at the facility to prevent similar entanglements. What happens next includes the release of the identities of the deceased by the Riverside County Coroner's Office once next of kin are notified. The Riverside County Sheriff's Department has not yet announced a completion date for its report on the air emergency.