Tragedy Strikes: Skydiving Accident Claims Lives in Strömstad

Ten skydivers were training at Näsinge airfield in Strömstad when a tragic accident occurred. During a free-fall exercise, two men collided mid-air and lost their lives.

The day after the accident, a somber mood enveloped Näsinge airfield. Over the weekend, people from across Sweden gathered to mourn the deceased. Outside the clubhouse, some sat together in tears, while others embraced and reminisced about fond memories of their lost friends.

Most of the attendees were skydivers who had performed similar jumps, one of many joyful leaps made each year. However, this particular jump ended in catastrophe.

Training for the National Championship

The accident happened during a practice session for the national championship in the "10-man speed formation" category. This competition involves participants jumping from a plane at 4,000 meters and quickly forming a pattern in the air. At around 1,500 meters, the group separates to safely deploy their parachutes.

"Something went wrong; we don't know exactly what. But two of the jumpers got too close and collided," said Joakim Berlin, a national instructor at the Swedish Parachute Association.

The jumpers who collided were men in their 30s and 40s. Their lives could not be saved.

Flags at Half-Mast Nationwide

Flags at parachute clubs across the country are flying at half-mast. Skydivers nationwide are expressing their condolences, according to Anna Oscarson from the Swedish Parachute Association.

"The entire skydiving community in Sweden is in mourning. The atmosphere is one of shock and sadness," she said.

Solveig Klug and Marie Bergström were among those who traveled to Näsinge after hearing about the accident.

"I was at work when I heard about it, so I came here immediately," said Marie Bergström, a skydiver herself, who was deeply affected.

"It's terrible; I was instantly saddened. I spent the whole evening here with everyone," she added.

For Solveig Klug, it was natural to come and support those at the airfield.

"I felt I wanted to be here and take care of those left behind. It's a huge tragedy, especially for their families," she said.

A crisis team was present at the airfield, and the Swedish Church held a memorial service on Saturday evening. In the small community, church bells tolled for the deceased.

"It was wonderful to have them here. I talked a lot with them; it felt comforting," said Marie Bergström.

Strong Bond Among Skydivers

Marie Bergström shared that being with other skydivers has been comforting. The sport is relatively small in Sweden, with around 1,000 active participants, fostering a strong sense of community.

"We understand each other; our sport is something special. We are very close-knit," she said.

Despite the accident, Solveig Klug has no doubts about continuing the sport.

"I don't do this to die, but to live. For me, skydiving is living. It's like mindfulness—when I do this, I shut everything else out."

Marie Bergström agrees.

"Yes, I just want to get back up there and jump. I love it. I will continue doing it."

Investigation Following the Skydiving Accident

The accident is now under investigation by the Swedish Parachute Association, which has initially examined the jumpers' equipment and reviewed footage from the jump.

"There's nothing to suggest it's equipment-related. The parachutes deployed," said Joakim Berlin from the association.

Once the investigation is complete, it will be reported to the Swedish Transport Agency.

"We'll see if there's anything we can learn from this," he added.

The Swedish Accident Investigation Authority will also conduct an investigation.

According to Joakim Berlin, the national championship in "10-man speed formation" will proceed as planned in September.