What was meant to be a thrilling adventure ended in heartbreak for the loved ones of Belinda Taylor, a devoted mother of four who tragically died during a tandem skydive in Devon.
The incident happened on Friday afternoon at Dunkeswell Airfield near Honiton and has since sent shockwaves through the local community and the skydiving world.
A Partner’s Grief and Plea for Answers
Belinda’s partner, still reeling from the sudden loss, took to social media to express his devastation and to demand answers about what exactly went wrong.
“I want answers.
Today, they took my world away,” he wrote.
“You were my best friend, my everything.
You made my children feel loved and accepted.
I don’t even know what home feels like anymore without you.”
Witnesses Describe the Moments After the Fall
Eyewitnesses at the scene have shared chilling accounts of the moments surrounding the tragedy.
One person said their husband was fully suited up and ready for a jump when operations suddenly stopped, and the area was cleared.
Emergency responders arrived quickly, but the scene was already grim.
Another person recalled how they were simply waiting for coffee at the airfield café when staff abruptly shut the place down without explanation.
Only later did they realise the magnitude of the situation.
“It really puts things into perspective,” they said.
“Our hearts go out to everyone affected.”
Skydiving Community Mourns the Loss
British Skydiving, the governing body for the sport in the UK, confirmed that two people had died in the accident and announced that a formal investigation is already underway.
Robert Gibson, the organisation’s chief executive, shared a message of condolence, saying, “This is a heartbreaking day.
Our thoughts are with the families, friends, and fellow skydivers.”
A Board of Inquiry will review the accident and submit a detailed report to authorities including the coroner, police, and Civil Aviation Authority (CAA).
Until then, officials are asking for privacy and patience.
Police and CAA Join the Investigation
Devon and Cornwall Police responded to the airfield just after 1pm on Friday and confirmed that two skydivers had died at the scene.
While scene guards remain in place, police are urging anyone with information to come forward by quoting reference 50250150193.
The Civil Aviation Authority also acknowledged the incident and confirmed that while they cannot comment while investigations are ongoing, they will be fully cooperating with all relevant agencies.
A Second Tragedy Rocks the Skydiving World
This devastating event follows another skydiving-related tragedy earlier this year.
In Shotton Colliery, County Durham, 32-year-old Jade Damarell – an experienced skydiver with over 400 jumps – died after a solo fall.
Authorities believe she took her own life just one day after a breakup, and personal notes were found afterward.
Support for Those Struggling
As the skydiving community mourns two heartbreaking losses, mental health support is being highlighted.
Anyone struggling with grief or emotional distress is encouraged to reach out to organisations like Samaritans (call 116 123) or visit samaritans.org or the calm zone.