Two Experienced Skydivers Die After Midair Parachute Entanglement in California
A record-breaking formation attempt in Lake Elsinore ended in a fatal midair collision.
1Fatal Training Accident
Two experienced female skydivers died Friday in Lake Elsinore following a midair collision. The incident occurred during a training session aimed at setting a new California record for an upright formation. Authorities responded to the 20000 block of Cereal Street shortly before noon, finding the victims suffering from critical traumatic injuries.
2Record Attempt Details
The group was attempting to complete a 19-way formation in an upright orientation, where participants appear to be sitting in the air. This effort intended to surpass the existing state record of a 12-way formation. Professional skydiver Chazi Rutz confirmed the group had successfully jumped and held hands during the free fall.
3Collision Mechanics
While the initial free fall was uneventful, tragedy struck during the final approach. According to Skydive Elsinore, the two skydivers collided at approximately 150 feet above the ground. This impact caused their deployed parachutes to become entangled, leading to a rapid descent and fatal injuries upon reaching the ground near the facility.
4Emergency Response Actions
Riverside County Sheriff’s deputies and fire department personnel arrived on the scene to provide immediate medical aid. Both victims were transported to a local hospital in critical condition. Despite the efforts of medical teams, both women were pronounced dead shortly after their arrival at the hospital facility following the tragic accident.
5Victim Profiles
Chazi Rutz, who participated in the jump, described the deceased as experienced, passionate, and highly skilled skydivers. While their names were not publicly released, they were remembered as outgoing and kind individuals. The group was united by a common goal to achieve a new state record within their specialized skydiving discipline.
6Ongoing Official Investigation
The Riverside County Sheriff’s Office is currently conducting an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the collision. Lt. Deirdre Vickers confirmed that the inquiry is ongoing, though no further specific details regarding the cause have been released. Skydive Elsinore issued a statement acknowledging the event and the tragic loss of the two jumpers.
7Regional Safety Context
This incident follows other recent aviation and skydiving accidents in the region. In May, a separate skydiving accident in Perris resulted in one death and one injury. Additionally, a March 2023 incident in Lake Elsinore involved a solo skydiver landing in live power lines, though that individual fortunately survived without sustaining any injuries.
8Risk in Extreme Sports
The tragedy highlights the inherent risks involved in high-stakes formation skydiving, even among licensed and experienced practitioners. While technical maneuvers are planned with precision, midair proximity remains a critical safety factor. The aviation community continues to analyze such events to understand how equipment entanglement and landing approaches impact overall participant safety.