RITZVILLE, Wash. — A deadly skydiving incident is under investigation after two jumpers collided in midair during a group jump in eastern Washington on Sunday evening, the Adams County Sheriff’s Office (ACSO) said.
Around 5:37 p.m. Sunday, Adams County Dispatch was notified of a medical emergency in the 2000 block of E. Schoessler Road, just north of Ritzville. The report indicated that two skydivers needed medical attention, and emergency services responded.
Deputies learned at the scene that a midair collision had occurred. The sheriff’s office said one skydiver died and the other was injured and required additional treatment at a medical facility. The deceased was released to the care of the Adams County Coroner’s Office.
In a Monday update, the sheriff’s office said West Plains Skydiving, the organization that facilitated the jump, identified the jumpers as Randy Hubbs of Kennewick and Nicole Klein of Colville.
Preliminary findings indicate the collision happened during descent. After the collision, Hubbs reportedly became incapacitated and was no longer in control of his parachute canopy, according to ACSO. Staff observed and tracked Hubbs from about 500 feet above ground level as he drifted north and away from the designated drop zone. Witnesses stated Hubbs appeared unresponsive, with his head and arms down, before disappearing beyond a hill to the northeast.
Officials said weather conditions were not considered a contributing factor. A total of 11 people participated in the jump operation.
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The sheriff’s office said the investigation remains ongoing and asked anyone with information to contact the Adams County Sheriff’s Office.
