Image reproduced from 中視新聞

A tragic skydiving accident occurred in the UK recently, claiming the lives of Belinda Taylor, a mother of four, and her instructor. During a tandem jump, both fell to their deaths after one of the parachutes failed to deploy, with her partner Scott Armstrong witnessing the entire incident.

The event took place near Honiton in Devon, where Belinda participated in a skydiving experience arranged by her partner. Initially planning to jump from 7,000 feet (approximately 2,250 meters), Belinda unexpectedly decided to challenge herself by jumping from 15,000 feet (about 4,500 meters). The tandem jump was organized by a local company known as 'Skydive Buzz', which frequently operates in the area.

Scott, using binoculars, was watching Belinda jump when he noticed that one of the parachutes was not functioning properly. He hurriedly drove with their son to the landing site, only to find both Belinda and her instructor lying on the ground, having succumbed to injuries sustained in the fall.

According to the Devon police, they received a report of two skydivers in critical condition and dispatched rescue personnel to the scene. Unfortunately, both were pronounced dead upon arrival. The authorities have since set up a cordon around the area as they investigate the details of the incident.

Scott expressed his deep sorrow during an interview, saying, “Belinda was my whole world. She was kind, selfless, and willing to do anything for others. Recently, my 9-year-old son moved in with us, and she welcomed him without hesitation, treating him wonderfully. I arranged this skydiving experience as a gift for her, and she was so excited about it.”

Belinda hailed from Totnes and is survived by three adult sons and a teenage daughter, as well as being a grandmother to two children. Her eldest son, Connor Bowles, also expressed his condolences and gratitude to the police and all those who assisted during the tragedy.

This incident has shocked many witnesses, and several individuals have expressed their disbelief over the unfortunate occurrence. Amidst this tragedy, the attention on skydiving safety and training practices may likely become a topic of concern for society moving forward.