On 13 June 2025, two people were fatally injured during a tandem skydiving jump at Dunkeswell Aerodrome near Honiton in Devon, organised by Skydive Buzz.

The Exeter Coroner, Philip Spinney, has officially named the two individuals as Belinda Taylor from Totnes, Devon; and her tandem instructor, Adam Taylor from Bournemouth. An inquest into their tragic deaths has been announced.

Our thoughts and prayers are with the families of those involved at this difficult time.

Next phase of the skydiving incident investigation

The Coroner has confirmed reports by eyewitnesses that the tandem parachute failed to open, prior to the two deaths. This remains pending the outcome of an inquiry by a British Skydiving Board of Inquiry, which Stewarts’ Aviation team is monitoring. The inquest is now paused and unlikely to resume until the report is available, which may take several months.

Rebecca Smith, a Legal Director in Stewarts’ Aviation team, commented:

“While we await the results of the investigation, it is inappropriate to comment on why the parachute failed to open. What is important for now is that the authorities be able to conduct a full and thorough investigation, so the affected families can get answers.

Our team is involved in other cases where safety issues have arisen on the part of parachute training operations, and which have led to life-changing injuries. It will be essential that any lessons are learned from this tragedy to ensure confidence in the sport.”

Our Aviation team has experience in skydiving accident claims both in the UK and around the world. For further information, contact Rebecca Smith at rsmith@stewartslaw.com.

You can find further information regarding our expertise, experience and team on our Aviation pages.

If you require assistance from our team, please contact us.

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