Tragedy as man dies in parachute incident near Peterlee

A man has tragically died during a parachute incident in the North East. Police are now appealing for information following the incident which happened on Saturday at 12.30pm at South West Industrial Estate in Shotton.

Durham Constabulary said officers were called to the scene following concerns for the welfare of a man. They were joined by crews from Durham and Darlington Fire and Rescue Service but sadly the man, aged in his 40s, was pronounced dead at the scene.

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A cordon is expected to remain in place at the scene for some time. The death is being treated as unexpected and enquires are now ongoing.

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.”

Anyone with information is asked to contact 101 quoting incident number 168 of April 27