Lake Elsinore – Two licensed skydivers lost their lives Friday after a midair collision at Skydive Elsinore, the popular drop‑zone on Cereal Street near Corydon Road. The incident occurred at approximately 11:45 a.m. as the jumpers were preparing to land, according to the Riverside County Fire Department.
What happened
According to the skydiving center, the two experienced participants collided about 150 feet above the ground. Their parachutes became entangled, and both skydivers suffered severe injuries when they reached the earth. Emergency crews rushed the victims by ground ambulance to Inland Valley Medical Center in Wildomar, where they were pronounced dead.
Response from Skydive Elsinore
Skydive Elsinore released a statement expressing its deepest condolences to the families, friends, and loved ones of the two skydivers. “We are grieving alongside all those affected,” the center said, adding that it is fully cooperating with local authorities.
The center also noted that there is no indication of equipment failure and that the skydivers were both licensed and experienced. No further details about the individuals have been released.
Weather conditions
Riverside County officials reported that northeast winds were present throughout the day, with gusts reaching up to 20 mph near March Air Reserve Base, about 14 miles east of Lake Elsinore. While the wind was noted, investigators have not yet determined whether it contributed to the collision.
Investigation underway
The Riverside County Fire Department, along with the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (Cal Fire) and local law‑enforcement agencies, are conducting a thorough investigation. The focus will be on flight patterns, equipment checks, and any possible environmental factors that could have played a role.
Authorities have asked anyone who witnessed the incident or who may have additional information to contact the Riverside County Fire Department’s investigative unit.
Community impact
The tragedy has sent a wave of sorrow through the local skydiving community and the broader Lake Elsinore area. Skydive Elsinore is a well‑known destination for both novice and seasoned jumpers, and the loss of two skilled participants underscores the inherent risks of the sport.
Local officials have emphasized the importance of safety protocols and have urged skydiving enthusiasts to remain vigilant about weather conditions and equipment checks.
Safety reminders
While skydiving remains a popular extreme‑sport activity, experts stress that proper training, equipment maintenance, and adherence to weather guidelines are critical to minimizing risk. The National Skydiving Association recommends that jumpers review wind‑speed limits and maintain clear communication with ground crews during landing approaches.
As the investigation continues, the community awaits further findings that may help prevent future accidents and honor the memory of the two skydivers who lost their lives.
Original reporting: NBC4 Los Angeles — read the source article.
