A skydiver lost his life on Sunday after a midair collision with another jumper, as reported by authorities on Monday. The tragic event unfolded at approximately 5:30 p.m. near Colville, located in northeast Washington state, according to the Adams County Sheriff’s Office (ACSO).
The collision occurred during a planned group jump involving several participants. Witnesses, including staff members, noted that the victim seemed unresponsive during the descent. ACSO shared in a Facebook post that the incident took place at West Plains Skydiving and involved two jumpers.
The sheriff’s office stated: “Authorities are investigating a fatal skydiving incident that occurred at West Plains Skydiving involving two jumpers during a scheduled group jump.”
During the mishap, two skydivers deployed their parachutes. The victim, Randy Hubbs from Kennewick in southeastern Washington, died after the impact. The other skydiver, Nicole Klein from Colville, sustained injuries that necessitated medical treatment.
Individuals on the ground were able to watch and track Hubbs from about 500 feet above ground. After colliding with Klein, witnesses reported that Hubbs appeared unresponsive, and his head and arms went limp.
Authorities informed: “Following the collision, Randy Hubbs reportedly became incapacitated and was no longer in control of his parachute canopy.”
Hubbs drifted away from the intended drop zone, moving north before vanishing beyond a hill. Adams County Dispatch received reports of a medical emergency involving both injured skydivers on E. Schoessler Road.
Deputies arrived at the scene to investigate the incident. Hubbs was subsequently handed over to the Adams County Coroner’s Office for further examination. Officials noted that weather conditions did not seem to play a role in the accident.
West Plains Skydiving informed local media that both jumpers were seasoned and used their equipment. Hubbs had over 800 jumps, while Klein had completed around 900.
ACSO extended sympathy: “We offer our deepest condolences to those impacted by this incident.”
The investigation is still in progress.
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