Photo: Mauricio Graiki / iStock / Getty Images
A tragic skydiving accident in Ritzville, Washington, resulted in the death of one skydiver and injuries to another on Sunday (May 24). The incident occurred during a scheduled group jump at Skydive West Plains, about 55 miles southwest of Spokane. Emergency services responded to a "medical emergency" at 5:37 p.m., according to the Adams County Sheriff's Office.
The deceased skydiver has been identified as 70-year-old Randy Hubbs, who had completed over 800 jumps and was a long-standing member of the Skydive West Plains community. The injured skydiver, 52-year-old Nicole Klein, suffered a hip injury but is expected to recover fully. Klein has approximately 900 jumps to her name.
During the jump, both Hubbs and Klein deployed their parachutes without issue. However, at approximately 1,000 feet above ground, their parachutes collided. Witnesses reported that Hubbs appeared unresponsive and drifted away from the designated drop zone, eventually disappearing beyond a hill. The Adams County Sheriff's Office stated that weather conditions were not a factor in the incident.
The Skydive West Plains community expressed their sorrow over the loss of Hubbs, describing him as a cherished member of their family. They also extended their thoughts to Klein and her family during her recovery.
The investigation into the incident is ongoing, and authorities are seeking any additional information from witnesses. Anyone with information is encouraged to contact the Adams County Sheriff's Office at 509-659-1122.