AI-generated illustration; not a photograph of the reported event.
- calendar_today November 7, 2026
Experienced Skydivers Die in Lake Elsinore Collision
Two skydivers were pronounced dead after colliding in mid-air during a jump over Lake Elsinore, Southern California, on Friday, according to officials and witnesses. The fatal incident took place near the Skydive Elsinore facility in Riverside County shortly before noon.
Details of the Incident
Skydive Elsinore described the pair as experienced and licensed skydivers. According to a statement from the facility, eyewitnesses reported that the freefall portion of the jump was normal and uneventful, and both skydivers deployed their parachutes at the proper altitude. The collision occurred as they prepared to land, at approximately 150 feet above the ground, resulting in their parachutes becoming entangled.
Emergency Response and Outcome
The Riverside County Fire Department responded to the scene and found that both skydivers had suffered traumatic injuries. They were transported to a hospital in critical condition but were subsequently pronounced dead, Riverside County Sheriff’s Department Lt. Deirdre Vickers confirmed via email.
The names of the skydivers were not immediately released, pending notification of their next of kin. The incident occurred a little more than half a mile from Skydive Elsinore's facility. Spokesperson Josh Hall stated that there was no indication of equipment malfunction in the skydivers’ gear.
Context: Skydiving Event and Participants
The skydivers were visiting from out-of-town to participate in the California Women’s Upright Record team, which was in the process of attempting a world record for the most women completed in a standing-stance skydive. The event, which was scheduled to run through Sunday, was hosted at Skydive Elsinore but not organized by the facility. Organizers of the record attempt did not respond immediately to requests for comment.
Skydive Elsinore Responds
In an official statement, Skydive Elsinore extended condolences, stating, “Skydive Elsinore extends its deepest condolences to the families, friends, and loved ones of both skydivers, and is grieving alongside all those affected.”
Skydiving Safety and Statistics
The United States Parachute Association (USPA) reported that 16 skydivers died in U.S. jumps last year, characterizing this as a low number compared to the historically higher fatality rates of the 1970s. According to USPA data, there were approximately 3.47 million jumps in 2025. The organization tracks such incidents and shares safety information with the skydiving community.
Location and Background
Lake Elsinore is situated about 75 miles southeast of downtown Los Angeles. Skydive Elsinore is one of the region’s established drop zones, frequently hosting events attracting skydivers from around the country and abroad.
Related coverage
Source: nbcnews.com.
