On Monday, officials reported that a skydiver tragically died following a midair collision during a jump on Sunday. The accident took place around 5:30 p.m. near Colville, situated in northeast Washington, according to the Adams County Sheriff’s Office (ACSO).
This incident occurred during a planned group jump that involved multiple participants. Witnesses, including several staff members, observed the unfortunate event unfold, noting that the victim seemed to lose responsiveness during the descent.
The ACSO shared on Facebook, “Authorities are investigating a fatal skydiving accident involving two jumpers during a scheduled group jump at West Plains Skydiving.”
Sadly, the victim was identified as Randy Hubbs from the Kennewick area, while the other jumper, Nicole Klein, hails from Colville. Reports indicated that at the scene, deputies discovered Hubbs had died from the collision, whereas Klein sustained injuries requiring additional medical attention.
According to officials, they were able to monitor Hubbs from about 500 feet up as the incident unfolded. Preliminary findings suggest that he became unresponsive after colliding with Klein, with witnesses observing that his head and arms seemed to go limp following the impact.
The authorities stated, “After the collision, Randy Hubbs reportedly became incapacitated and lost control of his parachute canopy.” Subsequently, he drifted north, moving away from the designated drop zone before disappearing over the nearby hills.
After receiving emergency reports about two injured skydivers on E. Schoesler Road, deputies arrived at the scene to investigate. Mr. Hubbs was later transferred to the Adams County Coroner’s Office.
Officials have noted that weather conditions were not a contributing factor in this incident. West Plains Skydiving informed local media that both jumpers were experienced and using their own gear. Hubbs had reportedly completed over 800 jumps, while Klein had about 900 jumps under her belt.
ACSO extended its condolences to those affected by this tragic accident, while the investigation continues.
