Illinois Skydiver Dies Midair Collision Second Fatal Incident Week

A 40-year-old experienced skydiver died after colliding midair with another skydiver during an 18-person jump at Chicagoland Skydiving Center in Rochelle, Illinois. Both parachute canopies collapsed upon collision, and although reserve parachutes were deployed, one skydiver experienced an uncontrolled descent resulting in a fatal hard landing, while the other sustained minor injuries. The deceased had completed more than 2,900 jumps, highlighting his extensive experience. The incident occurred shortly before 7 p.m. and is under investigation by the Ogle County Sheriff's Office alongside federal authorities. This tragedy marks the second fatal skydiving accident in Illinois within a week, following the death of Dr. Noel Liu in LaSalle County. The skydiving community mourns the loss, with the Chicagoland Skydiving Center expressing condolences to the family and friends affected.