Minnesota woman killed in Arizona skydiving accident, police say
ELOY, Ariz. — An investigation is underway after a Minnesota woman died in a skydiving accident in southern Arizona last week.
According to Eloy police, just after 4 p.m. Friday, fire crews and police were dispatched to Skydive Arizona on the 4900 block of Tayor Street North in Eloy. They were responding to reports of a "parachutist experiencing complications during descent," police said.
When responders arrived, they located the parachutist and attempted life-saving measures, but the victim was pronounced dead at the scene. Police identified her as 55-year-old Ann Wick of Minnesota.
Police say the cause of the accident is under investigation.
According to Ian Mackenzie, a spokesperson with Skydive Arizona, witnesses reported that the freefall phase of the skydive "appeared normal, with the parachute deploying as expected." However, though the parachute fully deployed, the canopy was turning and "no corrective actions appeared to be taken by the jumper" nor was the reserve parachute deployed, the spokesperson said.
Mackenzie said Wick suffered fatal injuries in the landing.
"The Skydive Arizona community is saddened by the loss of a cherished member of the skydiving family. We extend our heartfelt condolences to her family and friends during this incredibly difficult time," Mackenzie said. "Skydive Arizona is cooperating fully with local authorities to assist in the investigation of this incident and remains committed to upholding the highest safety standards."
The company says Wick was using her gear, which licensed skydivers are allowed to do.
The Federal Aviation Administration says it will be investigating the packing of the main and reserve parachutes, as well as the rules of flight for both the pilot and aircraft. The FAA says it does not determine the cause of the accident.
"If the FAA does not find any evidence of regulatory violation, it will defer any further investigation of the accident to local law enforcement," the FAA said in a statement.
Anyone with information about the incident is asked to call Eloy police at 520-466-7324.
Eloy is located about 65 miles southeast of Phoenix.
This is a developing story, so check back on WCCO.com for more.
