**Partner Seeks Clarity After Fatal Skydiving Tragedy in Devon**
The partner of a woman tragically killed in a recent skydiving incident in Devon has spoken out, demanding answers and seeking an explanation for the heartbreaking accident that claimed two lives. Emergency services rushed to the scene at Dunkeswell Airfield, near Honiton, just after 1pm on Friday, following urgent reports of a serious incident involving two skydivers.
The grim news of two fatalities was confirmed later that day, sending shockwaves through both the local community and the UK’s skydiving fraternity. Authorities say the British Skydiving Board of Inquiry is now actively investigating the circumstances that led to the deaths. Officials hope the inquiry will eventually shed light on what happened and, crucially, provide comfort and reassurance to the bereaved families.
On Sunday, the devastated partner of one of the victims took to social media, expressing grief and a pressing need for answers. “I want answers. Today, they took my world away,” he wrote. He described his partner as both his “best friend” and a wonderful presence in his family’s life, remembering her for the kindness she showed his children and her tolerance of life’s daily chaos. The emotional tribute painted a picture of profound loss, with words such as, “I’m so lost without you… I don’t know where home is without you,” highlighting the depth of his sorrow.
Eyewitnesses at Dunkeswell Airfield on the day of the incident have recounted the confusion and distress in the moments following the accident. One individual, whose husband was preparing for a jump, recalled how activities were suddenly cancelled, the area evacuated, and the rapid arrival of emergency responders. “The emergency services arrived incredibly quickly,” she noted, extending her condolences to the families impacted by the devastating event.
Another visitor to the site described how a routine café visit was abruptly cut short. “We left, rather disgruntled at missing out on our coffee. Surprising how things are put into perspective when you know the facts. Our thoughts and condolences are with all those affected by this very sad tragedy,” she reflected, illustrating how an ordinary day was transformed by the gravity of the situation.
Robert Gibson, chief executive of British Skydiving, released a statement acknowledging the incident and outlining the next steps. He confirmed that the Board of Inquiry would thoroughly investigate and subsequently submit its findings to the relevant authorities, including the coroner, the police, the Civil Aviation Authority, and the British Skydiving Safety & Training Committee. Gibson urged privacy and respect for the families and community as they process their grief.
Devon and Cornwall Police also responded to the incident, confirming that both skydivers had been pronounced dead at the scene and that their loved ones had been notified. “Scene guards remain in place and enquiries are ongoing by the relevant agencies,” police stated. Authorities have urged those with any potentially helpful information to come forward, directing the public to quote the reference number provided in official communications.
The incident has sparked further discussion in both local and national circles about skydiving safety and the measures in place to safeguard participants. The outcome of the forthcoming inquiry will likely be watched closely by the skydiving community, regulators, and families alike, not only for answers but also for recommendations to prevent such tragedies in the future.
As the investigation continues, families and friends of the victims are left in mourning, searching for understanding and holding onto the hope that forthcoming answers may bring them some solace. The wider community, meanwhile, stands united in support, extending messages of sympathy and compassion to all those affected by the shocking loss.