A tragic incident occurred on Sunday when a skydiver died following a midair collision with another jumper. The incident happened around 5:30 p.m. near Colville, northeast of Washington state, according to the Adams County Sheriff’s Office (ACSO).
The collision took place during a scheduled group jump with multiple participants. Several staff members reportedly witnessed the event, observing as the victim became unresponsive during descent.
Authorities are investigating a fatal skydiving incident that occurred at West Plains Skydiving involving two jumpers during a scheduled group jump.
According to ACSO, one skydiver died and the other suffered injuries requiring medical treatment. The victim was identified as Randy Hubbs, from the Kennewick area in southeastern Washington. The second skydiver, Nicole Klein, is from the Colville area.
Witnesses reported that Hubbs became unresponsive after colliding with Klein. Staff members tracked Hubbs from about 500 feet above ground level as the incident unfolded.
Preliminary findings indicated that Hubbs lost control of his parachute canopy following the collision. He drifted away from the designated drop zone and disappeared beyond a hill to the northeast.
Adams County Dispatch received emergency reports involving two injured skydivers in the 2000 block of E. Schoessler Road. Deputies responded and began investigating. Hubbs was later handed over to the Adams County Coroner’s Office.
Officials noted that weather conditions did not seem to play a role in the accident. West Plains Skydiving informed local media that both jumpers were experienced and used their own equipment. Hubbs had completed over 800 jumps, while Klein had completed about 900.
We extend our deepest condolences to those affected by this incident, ACSO stated. The investigation continues.
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