2 Experienced Jumpers Killed in Entangled Landing Collision
Two licensed skydivers died following a midair collision and parachute entanglement in Lake Elsinore, California, during an organized jumping event on Friday. The collision involved two experienced jumpers who plummeted to the ground after their canopies locked together during their final landing approach.
Midair Entanglement Occurred 150 Feet Above Ground
The initial free fall portion of the jump and the opening of both parachutes proceeded normally, according to a statement from event organizer Skydive Elsinore. Troubles began as both individuals maneuvered to land, colliding at approximately 150 feet (about 46 meters) above the ground. The impact caused their parachutes to become tightly entangled, sending both jumpers to the ground with compromised canopies.
Emergency responders from the Riverside County Fire Department treated both individuals for traumatic injuries at the scene before transporting them to a local hospital in critical condition. Both jumpers were later pronounced dead by medical staff at the facility.
