Experienced skydiver Randy Hubbs dies after midair collision during group jump in Washington

A fatal skydiving incident claimed the life of Randy Hubbs, an experienced jumper from the Kennewick area, following a midair collision with another skydiver during a scheduled group jump operation Sunday afternoon. The tragedy unfolded around 5:30 p.m. near Colville, in northeast Washington, as multiple staff members and participants watched from the ground. The Adams County Sheriff’s Office confirmed the incident Monday, reporting that Hubbs became unresponsive after the impact and lost control of his parachute canopy. A second jumper, Nicole Klein from the Colville area, sustained injuries requiring medical treatment at a nearby facility.

The collision occurred during a group jump involving 11 scheduled participants at West Plains Skydiving. Staff members tracked Hubbs from approximately 500 feet above ground level after witnessing the impact. Preliminary findings indicated that Hubbs appeared to become incapacitated immediately following the collision, with witnesses reporting his head and arms went limp. The experienced skydiver, who had completed more than 800 jumps throughout his career, drifted north away from the designated drop zone before disappearing beyond a hill to the northeast.

Multiple witnesses observed the collision unfold

Several staff members present during the jump operation were able to observe and track both skydivers as the incident developed. The group jump had been scheduled as part of regular operations at the facility, with all participants using personally owned equipment. According to investigators, the collision happened at altitude, causing immediate incapacitation for Hubbs while Klein managed to maintain some level of control despite her injuries.

Adams County Dispatch received reports of a medical emergency in the 2000 block of East Schoessler Road involving two injured skydivers shortly after the incident. Deputies responded to the location and began investigating the circumstances surrounding the collision. Emergency medical personnel arrived on scene to provide assistance to Klein, who required additional treatment at a medical facility for injuries sustained during the impact.

Both jumpers were highly experienced with personal gear

West Plains Skydiving officials confirmed to local media outlets that both individuals involved in the collision were seasoned skydivers with extensive experience. Hubbs had logged more than 800 jumps during his time in the sport, demonstrating significant proficiency and knowledge of skydiving protocols. Klein had completed approximately 900 jumps, establishing herself as an equally experienced participant in the skydiving community.

• Randy Hubbs completed over 800 jumps throughout his career
• Nicole Klein had logged approximately 900 jumps before the incident
• Both skydivers used personally owned equipment during the jump
• The group operation involved 11 scheduled participants total
• Staff members tracked Hubbs from 500 feet above ground level

The use of personal equipment by both jumpers indicated their commitment to the sport and their level of investment in skydiving activities. Personal gear typically reflects an individual’s experience level and dedication, as newer or less frequent jumpers often rely on rental equipment provided by skydiving facilities.

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Weather conditions ruled out as contributing factor

Investigators examining the incident determined that weather conditions do not appear to have played a role in the collision. The assessment eliminates one common variable that officials typically consider when evaluating skydiving accidents. Clear weather conditions would have provided good visibility for all participants during the group jump operation, suggesting the collision resulted from other factors currently under investigation.

The Adams County Sheriff’s Office continues to examine all circumstances surrounding the fatal incident. Deputies collected statements from witnesses present during the jump, including staff members who observed the collision and subsequent descent. The investigation aims to determine the exact sequence of events that led to the midair impact between the two experienced skydivers.

Victim released to coroner’s office as investigation proceeds

Following the emergency response and initial investigation at the scene, Hubbs was released into the care of the Adams County Coroner’s Office. The coroner’s office will conduct further examination to document the cause and manner of death, providing official findings that will contribute to the overall investigation. Standard procedures in fatal skydiving incidents involve comprehensive review of equipment, witness statements, and physical evidence to establish a complete understanding of what occurred.

The Adams County Sheriff’s Office extended condolences to those impacted by the tragedy in their official statement. The investigation remains active as authorities work to compile all relevant information about the collision. Group jumps involve multiple participants exiting an aircraft and maneuvering in relatively close proximity, requiring coordination and awareness from all jumpers to maintain safe distances and avoid collisions during freefall and canopy flight phases.

West Plains Skydiving has not released additional statements beyond confirming the experience levels of both jumpers and noting they used personal equipment. The facility operates regular jump operations for experienced skydivers and those participating in training programs. The skydiving community in Washington and beyond typically responds to fatal incidents with renewed focus on safety protocols and awareness of the inherent risks involved in the sport, even for highly experienced participants like Hubbs and Klein.