Tragedy Strikes Strömstad as Skydiving Collision Claims Two Lives
A skydiving accident in Strömstad leads to the tragic deaths of two divers, prompting national mourning.
Key Points
- • Two skydivers died in a collision during a jump from 4,000 meters.
- • The incident involved a training exercise for a speed formation competition.
- • Flags at skydiving clubs across Sweden are at half-mast in tribute.
- • A crisis team was deployed to support the community during this tragic time.
In a devastating incident at Näsinge airfield in Strömstad, Sweden, two skydivers lost their lives during a training jump on Saturday, August 16, 2025. The collision occurred at an altitude of approximately 1,500 meters while the pair were practicing for a '10-person speed formation' competition, a discipline that requires cohesion among divers in mid-air. Joakim Berlin, a national instructor from the Swedish Parachute Federation, indicated that the collision transpired as the jumpers mistakenly came too close to one another during their descent.
The deceased, identified as men aged 30 and 40, were not able to be saved after the tragic event. In response to the accident, Näsinge airfield has become a somber gathering place for mourners, with many skydivers from across the country coming to pay their respects. As a mark of grief, flags at skydiving clubs throughout Sweden have been lowered to half-mast in honor of the victims.
A crisis team was quickly deployed to provide support to those affected by the tragedy, and a memorial service was held at the local church, where the community gathered to remember the deceased. Local bells tolled in remembrance, enhancing the emotional atmosphere filled with grief and solidarity among the skydiving community.
The Swedish Parachute Federation is actively investigating the incident, which includes a thorough examination of the equipment used by the jumpers and a review of available video footage. Initial reports indicate that there was no malfunction of the skydiving equipment involved. The findings from this investigation will be shared with the Transport Agency, while the Accident Investigation Authority will conduct their own separate inquiry into the circumstances surrounding the accident. Despite this profound tragedy, the Swedish Parachute Federation has confirmed that the national competition planned for September will proceed as scheduled, showcasing the resilience of the skydiving community amidst sorrow.