British Skydiving Board to investigate after man dies in parachute incident near Peterlee

The British Skydiving Board is set to launch an investigation after a man tragically died during a parachute incident in the North East.

Emergency services were called to South West Industrial Estate in Shotton at 12.30pm on Saturday following concerns for a man's welfare. Crews from Durham and Darlington Fire and Rescue Service, the North East Ambulance Service, and Durham Constabulary attended the industrial estate.

Sadly a man, aged in his 40s, was pronounced dead at the scene. A cordon is expected to remain in place for some time and the death is being treated as unexpected as inquiries continue. Durham Constabulary have also kickstarted a police investigation and are appealing for information following the incident.

• Read more: Tragedy as man dies in parachute incident near Peterlee

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D/Chief Inspector Mel Sutherland, who is leading the investigation said: “Officers are keen to speak to anyone who was travelling on the A19 at around 12.20pm to 12.30pm who may have mobile phone footage or dashcam footage which captures the moments leading up to the incident. Our thoughts remain with the man’s family at this time.”

On Sunday, ChronicleLive contacted Sky-High Skydiving, Peterlee Parachute Centre, based at Shotton Airfield, for comment. A spokesperson for Sky-High Skydiving, said: "The British Skydiving Board will investigate the incident and when completed it will submit its findings to the relevant authorities."

The North East Ambulance Service sent four Hazardous Area Response Teams (HART), a clinical team leader, a specialist paramedic and two ambulances to the scene. They also requested support from the Great North Air Ambulance.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Durham Constabulary on 101 quoting incident number 168 of April 27.