A skydiver died after a mid-air collision during a group jump in eastern Washington.
The fatal incident happened during a scheduled jump operation at West Plains Skydiving in Ritzville, according to the Adams County Sheriff’s Office.
Investigators said two skydivers — Randy Hubbs, of the Kennewick area, and Nicole Klein, of the Colville area — collided while descending during the jump.
Preliminary findings indicate Hubbs became incapacitated after the collision and was no longer able to control his parachute canopy, according to the sheriff’s office.
Staff members at the skydiving facility reportedly tracked Hubbs from about 500 feet above the ground as he drifted north of the designated drop zone. Witnesses told investigators Hubbs appeared unresponsive, with his head and arms down, before disappearing beyond a hill northeast of the area.
Authorities said weather was not considered a factor in the incident.
A total of 11 people participated in the jump operation. No additional information about Klein’s condition was immediately released.
The investigation remains ongoing. Anyone with information is asked to contact the Adams County Sheriff’s Office at 509-659-1122 or by email at CrimeTips@co.adams.wa.gov.
“We offer our deepest condolences to those impacted by this incident,” the Adams County Sheriff’s Office said.
Additional details about Hubbs’ life were not immediately available. Loved ones are invited to share a statement, funeral details, and/or photos by emailing michael@pugetpress.com.
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