Yahoo News British Skydiving Board to investigate after man dies in North-east parachute incident
The British Skydiving Board will conduct a thorough inquiry following the death of a man in a parachute incident in the North-east..
At 12.30pm on Saturday, emergency responders rushed to South West Industrial Estate in Shotton, near Peterlee, amid reports of concern for a man's welfare. Teams from Durham and Darlington Fire and Rescue Service, North East Ambulance Service, and Durham Constabulary were dispatched to the scene.
Tragically, the man, who was in his 40s, was declared dead at the location. Authorities anticipate that a cordon will be maintained for an extended period while the death, currently deemed unexpected, is investigated further.
Durham Constabulary has also initiated a police probe and is calling for witnesses to come forward with any relevant information. D/Chief Inspector Mel Sutherland, leading the investigation, stated: "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."
Peterlee Parachute Centre, that operates under the name Sky-High Skydiving at Shotton Airfield, was contacted for a statement. A representative from Sky-High Skydiving stated: "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 emergency vehicles to the scene. The Great North Air Ambulance was sought for further aid.
Durham Constabulary is actively encouraging any individuals with additional insight to step forward by contacting 101, referring to incident number 168 on April 27.
