Belinda Taylor and Instructor Adam Harrison Die in Tragic Tandem Skydive

A heartbreaking accident took place during a tandem skydive at Dunkeswell Airfield in East Devon. Belinda Taylor, a 48-year-old mother of four, and Adam Harrison, a 30-year-old skydiving instructor, both lost their lives when their parachute failed to open properly during the jump.

What Happened During the Jump?

Belinda and Adam were taking part in a tandem jump from 15,000 feet. It was Belinda’s first time skydiving. She was strapped to Adam, who had been working as a qualified instructor since 2020.

The original plan was to jump from 7,000 feet. But Belinda, known for her adventurous spirit, decided to go higher. Her partner, Scott Armstrong, paid the extra fee for the 15,000-ft jump.

Shortly after leaving the aircraft, something went wrong. Their parachute did not open as expected. Both fell to the ground and were found dead in a nearby field. According to Devon’s Senior Coroner Philip Spinney, they died from multiple injuries due to the fall.

Belinda Taylor: A Brave and Loving Mother

Belinda was from Totnes, Devon. She had four children and two grandchildren. Her family described her as a caring, strong, and adventurous woman. Her 20-year-old son Elias said she had become more adventurous after meeting her new partner, Scott.

“She was doing things like kayaking and now skydiving. She was always positive and full of energy,” Elias shared.

Her oldest son, Connor Bowles, said: “She was a selfless woman. She always put others first. Losing her is a huge pain for our family.”

Scott Armstrong was the one who gave her the skydive experience as a gift. He was at the airfield and witnessed the aftermath.

“I miss her so much. We were so happy. I just want answers,” he said.

Adam Harrison: A Skilled and Trusted Instructor

Adam Harrison was from Bournemouth and had worked with Skydive Buzz since 2020. He was also studying to become a chiropractor.

His sister, Amy Harrison, said he was experienced, responsible, and deeply cared for his students.

“Adam had built a great reputation. We know he did all he could to save them.”

Investigation Underway

The British Skydiving Board of Inquiry, Devon and Cornwall Police, East Devon District Council, and the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) are all investigating the accident. The inquest into the deaths has been postponed until the results of these investigations are complete.

The operator, Skydive Buzz, issued a statement: “We are heartbroken. Our deepest condolences go to the families. Safety is our top priority, and we are fully cooperating with all investigations.”

The company offers jumps from 7,000 ft, 10,000 ft, and 15,000 ft. Their website claims “No one jumps from higher in the UK.”

Family Demands Answers

The Taylor family wants clear information on how this tragedy happened. Elias said: “We want as much detail as possible. It will help us understand and bring some peace.”

What’s Next?

Once the inquiry is complete, a report will be shared with the coroner, police, the CAA, and British Skydiving’s Safety & Training Committee. It will include the causes of the accident and recommendations to prevent future incidents.

The families and skydiving community continue to mourn the loss of two lives taken far too soon.