Tributes to Isle of Wight skydiver who died during parachute jump

Sam Cornwell's parachute failed to open last month

Author: Ryan BurrowsPublished 9th May 2024
Last updated 9th May 2024

Police have named a videographer from the Isle of Wight who died during a parachute jump in County Durham last month.

Durham Police said Sam Cornwell, 46, from Sandown, was skydiving on April 28th near Shotton airfield when his parachute failed to open.

He suffered critical injuries and was pronounced dead at the scene at South West Industrial Estate in Shotton.

The force said his death was being treated as "unexpected" and inquires remain ongoing.

Sky-High Skydiving, which operates out of the airfield, previously said:

"We are all deeply saddened by the loss of a close friend, colleague and talented member of our team, our skydiving family."

The firm said it was working with Durham Police and British Skydiving to investigate what happened.

The fall may have been seen by drivers using the A19 that day and police appealed for anyone using the road at around 12.20pm, or who has dashcam footage from that period, to call them on 101.

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