Tragedy unfolds at County Durham skydiving center as 32-year-old falls to her death
A 32-year-old experienced skydiver with more than 400 successful jumps to her name died Sunday during what should have been a routine parachute jump at a skydiving center in northeast England, in what the company is now describing as a possible intentional act.
Jade Damarell, a married marketing manager, fell to her death in a farmer’s field at Shotton Colliery in County Durham. The incident was reportedly witnessed by at least one other person. Emergency services responded quickly but were unable to save her life, declaring her dead at the scene.
While authorities have stated the death is not being treated as suspicious, SkyHigh Skydiving released a statement suggesting the incident may have been self-inflicted.
“It is with great sadness that we confirm a tragic incident took place involving a valued member of our community,” the statement read. “All indications from the police and British Skydiving suggest that this was a deliberate act intended to end her own life.”
Community in shock
The skydiving community has been left reeling from the loss of someone described as passionate about the sport. One friend reported that Damarell was “mad for the sport” and had completed 11 jumps in just the two days prior to her death, with approximately 80 jumps already this year.
“Everyone is devastated and deeply traumatised,” the friend added, noting that Damarell “was very much part of the skydiving community.”
Memorial established
Wrefords’ Farms, where the fatal incident occurred, acknowledged the tragedy in a social media post: “As a memorial to the young lady who tragically lost her life in the parachute incident, we have planted a Cherry tree,” the farm stated on Facebook, including photos and information about where mourners can leave tributes and flowers.
In their statement, SkyHigh Skydiving extended condolences while also emphasizing the importance of mental health awareness: “This heartbreaking news has deeply affected all who knew her, and our thoughts are with her family and friends as they face this unimaginable loss. At this incredibly difficult time, we ask for privacy and compassion for those grieving.”
The company added, “If you are struggling or in emotional distress, please know that you are not alone. Support is available. We urge anyone in crisis to speak to someone or reach out to a mental health professional. Even in the darkest moments, there is help and hope.”
Police have indicated that while they are not treating the death as suspicious, the official cause will “ultimately be decided by a coroner.”
