**Two Skydivers Tragically Die in Devon Accident: Investigation Underway**
A tragic skydiving incident in Devon has resulted in the deaths of two individuals, prompting an immediate response from emergency crews and the launch of an official investigation by the British Skydiving organisation. The accident occurred on Friday afternoon, 13 June 2025, at the Dunkeswell Airfield near Honiton.
Emergency services arrived at the scene shortly after 1pm, following reports of an incident involving two skydivers at the well-known airfield. On their arrival, both individuals were sadly pronounced dead at the location. Their identities have not yet been made public, pending formal identification and notification of next of kin.
Authorities have secured the area around Dunkeswell Airfield as forensic teams and incident investigators undertake their work. The airfield, a site popular with enthusiasts and thrill-seekers alike, has now become the scene of a major inquiry, as both the police and the British Skydiving Board of Inquiry assess exactly what led to the fatal event.
In a formal statement, Robert Gibson, Chief Executive of British Skydiving, confirmed the loss. He said: “Today, Friday 13 June 2025, British Skydiving has been notified of a tragic accident in which two jumpers lost their lives. Our deepest condolences go to their families, friends, and the entire skydiving community.” Gibson added that the organisation would be conducting a thorough Board of Inquiry to establish the facts and provide recommendations, with the final report to be shared with relevant authorities including the coroner, police, Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) and the British Skydiving Safety & Training Committee.
Devon and Cornwall Police have also issued a statement. A spokesperson explained, “Emergency services were called to the area of Dunkeswell Aerodrome at around 1pm on Friday, 13 June, following concerns for the welfare of two people. It was reported that they were skydivers. They were sadly both confirmed deceased at the scene and their families have been informed. Scene guards remain in place and enquiries are ongoing by the relevant agencies.”
The exact circumstances leading to the deaths remain unclear, and both police and aviation safety officials are urging anyone with information that could assist their investigation to come forward. Members of the public can contact police via 101 or make a report through their website, quoting the reference number 50250150193.
The local community and the wider British skydiving network have expressed profound sorrow, with messages of sympathy appearing across social media channels. As is common in such shocking incidents, calls have also emerged for privacy for the families and others affected during this deeply distressing period.
Skydiving, while generally considered a safe sport when conducted in accordance with established procedures, does carry inherent risks. Incidents such as this, although rare, serve as sombre reminders of the dangers involved in extreme sports. Each year, British Skydiving reviews safety procedures to reduce risk, and it is expected that any findings from the current investigation will be closely analysed by industry experts.
Dunkeswell Airfield, set in the East Devon countryside, has long provided opportunities for both novice and experienced jumpers, with a strong reputation for upholding safety standards. The airfield’s operators have not yet commented publicly regarding the incident but are expected to cooperate fully with ongoing inquiries.
As authorities continue their work, attention will now turn to the official findings and whether any broader recommendations are made for the industry. For now, thoughts remain with the friends, families and local community struggling to come to terms with this profound loss. Further updates will be provided in due course, as the investigation progresses and more information becomes available.