The world is still processing the shocking news of Felix Baumgartner’s sudden passing.
The Austrian daredevil, famous for his record-breaking space jump, tragically died during a paragliding accident at an Italian seaside resort.
Here’s what we know about the heartbreaking event and the ongoing investigation.
Fatal Crash at Italy’s Adriatic Coast
Felix Baumgartner, aged 56, was enjoying a motorized paragliding flight near Porto Sant’Elpidio in Italy when disaster struck.
Around 4pm local time on Thursday, his paraglider suddenly went out of control and crashed into a swimming pool at the Le Mimose holiday camp.
The area is known for its picturesque coastline along the Adriatic Sea, but that day it became the scene of a devastating accident.
Official Cause of Death Revealed
Authorities have now confirmed the cause of Baumgartner’s death following an autopsy conducted at the forensic medicine department in Fermo hospital.
Prosecutor Raffaele Iannella explained that Baumgartner died on impact due to severe injuries.
His lower spine was fractured, and his spinal cord was fatally damaged, making survival impossible.
Possible Mechanical Failure Involving Paraglider Camera
Investigators are looking into what caused the sudden loss of control during the flight.
Reports suggest a freak accident may have occurred mid-air when a camera attached to the paraglider somehow got caught in the propeller, leading to a mechanical failure.
Officials are trying to retrieve the camera to piece together a detailed timeline of the crash.
Investigation Timeline and Ongoing Inquiries
The public prosecutor’s office in Italy has stated that it could take between 40 to 45 days to complete the full investigation into the accident.
The goal is to uncover all factors that contributed to the tragic incident and ensure that nothing is left unanswered.
Heartbreaking Tribute from Partner Michela Radulescu
Felix’s long-term partner, Michela Radulescu, shared a deeply emotional message and chilling video captured just minutes before the fatal flight.
Posting on social media, she reflected on over a decade of supporting Felix during his extreme sports adventures — from skydiving and paragliding to helicopter flights and aerobatic shows.
Michela admitted she had never missed a landing call except this tragic last one.
She described Felix as “truly special” and said, “He’s going home now, up there, where he was the happiest ever.”
Michela also expressed her gratitude to fans and supporters for keeping Felix’s extraordinary legacy alive.
Felix Baumgartner’s Remarkable Legacy
Baumgartner gained worldwide fame in 2012 for his daring leap from the edge of space, setting multiple records with his breathtaking skydive.
His fearless approach to extreme sports and passion for pushing limits inspired millions across the globe.
Though his life ended far too soon, Felix Baumgartner’s impact on the world of adventure and adrenaline sports will not be forgotten.