The skies above Southern California turned fatal on Friday, November 6th, as two experienced skydivers, Georgia Jean, 56, and Levi Pimentel, 29, collided mid-air, resulting in their tragic demise. The incident occurred at Skydive Elsinore, a facility boasting the longest running skydiving operation in North America.
According to the Riverside County Sheriff's Office, the free fall portion of the dive and the opening of the parachutes were uneventful, with both skydivers following standard procedure. However, as they prepared to land, the two collided at approximately 150 feet above the ground, their parachutes becoming entangled in the process. The resulting injuries proved fatal, with both skydivers pronounced deceased at the local hospital.
Skydive Elsinore's statement revealed the two skydivers to be "experienced, licensed skydivers" visiting from out of town to participate in the organized event. The company extended its deepest condolences to the families, friends, and loved ones of the deceased, vowing to cooperate fully with local authorities in the investigation.
The Federal Aviation Administration has been notified, and an investigation will be conducted to determine the cause of the collision. The incident serves as a sobering reminder of the risks involved in an otherwise thrilling and recreational activity. In 2025, the U.S. Parachute Association reported 16 fatalities among its members, with ankle injuries during landings being the most common.
This tragic event is not an isolated incident. In May, a skydiver died and another was injured following a mid-air collision during a team jump in Washington state. The incident highlights the importance of proper training, equipment, and safety protocols in the skydiving community.
As the investigation unfolds, it is clear that the world of skydiving has lost two experienced and licensed individuals, leaving loved ones to grapple with the devastating consequences. The incident serves as a poignant reminder of the risks and rewards that come with pushing the limits of human endeavor.
The Riverside County Fire Department's swift response and local authorities' prompt notification of the Federal Aviation Administration underscore the importance of cooperation and accountability in the face of tragedy.
As the facts surrounding this incident continue to emerge, one thing is certain: the world of skydiving will never forget the lives of Georgia Jean and Levi Pimentel, two skydivers who lost their lives in a split second of chaos and tragedy.
Written by: Chad Mirage | The Citizen Edition
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