A skydiver was found dead in northwestern Louisiana over the weekend after his parachute failed to open, authorities said. He was reported missing for some time after the jump.
Caddo Parish Sheriff's Office Identified The skydiver was described as an Asian male, but did not share his name. On Saturday afternoon, the office said the search was on for a skydiver who was last seen in the Gilliam area, about 25 miles north of Shreveport. The sheriff received a report from Gilliam Airport just before 1:30 pm local time informing them that he was missing.
According to the sheriff, when they arrived at the airfield, deputies discovered that the skydiver's parachute had not deployed. Multiple agencies began searching for the man, including an air rescue team and units from North Caddo Medical Center, Caddo Fire District and the Department of Wildlife and Fisheries, along with the Caddo Sheriff's Office.
The missing skydiver was found dead about two hours later, the sheriff said, noting that searchers found his body a few miles from his intended landing spot. Officials are investigating the incident.
Skydiving accidents are rare. United States Parachute Association 10 deaths reported During skydives in 2023, 3.65 million jumps were recorded throughout the year. While experts agree the sport can be dangerous, the USPA has said most accidents occur This is the result of human error, not equipment failure.
The USPA compares skydiving incidents to automobile accidents on its website, writing, “Many accidents occur because the jumper – often an experienced skydiver who is pushing the limits – uses a fully functioning parachute while landing. Makes an error in decision making.” “This is usually the result of equipment failure, rather than operator errors.”