Summary: A midair collision between two skydivers during a group jump in Adams County, Washington, on Sunday evening resulted in one fatality and one injury.
The incident occurred at approximately 5:37 p.m. in the 2000 block of E. Schoessler Road, north of Ritzville. The Adams County Sheriff's Office is continuing its investigation.
Incident Details
According to the Adams County Sheriff's Office, the collision occurred during a descent involving 11 jumpers. Two skydivers—identified as Randy Hubbs of Kennewick and Nicole Klein of Colville—made contact in midair at an approximate altitude of 1,000 feet.
West Plains Skydiving, the organization that facilitated the jump, stated that following the collision, Hubbs appeared incapacitated and lost control of his parachute. Staff observed Hubbs at approximately 500 feet above ground level, appearing unresponsive with his head and arms down, drifting north away from the designated drop zone. Witnesses reported Hubbs disappearing beyond a hill.
Hubbs was found deceased at the scene. Klein sustained injuries and was transported to a medical facility for treatment.
Participants
The jump included 11 participants. West Plains Skydiving reported that Hubbs had completed over 800 jumps, and Klein had completed over 900 jumps prior to the incident.
Investigation
The Adams County Sheriff's Office stated that weather conditions were not considered a contributing factor. The investigation is ongoing. Authorities are asking anyone with information to contact the Adams County Sheriff's Office.