The skydiving community and residents of Kennewick, Washington, are mourning the tragic loss of Randy Hubbs, who died following a midair skydiving collision near Ritzville on Sunday evening. The heartbreaking incident has left friends, fellow skydivers, and loved ones devastated as they remember a man described as experienced, passionate, and deeply respected within the skydiving community.
According to the Adams County Sheriff’s Office, the incident occurred during an 11-person group jump hosted by Skydive West Plains near the 2045 block of East Schoessler Road, off Interstate 90. Authorities were called to the area around 5:30 p.m. following reports of a medical emergency involving two skydivers.
After families were notified, officials identified the deceased as 70-year-old Randy Hubbs of Kennewick. Another experienced skydiver, 52-year-old Nicole Klein of Colville, was injured during the collision and transported to a hospital with a hip injury. Officials say she is expected to make a full recovery.
Investigators reported that both Hubbs and Klein were licensed and highly experienced skydivers. Hubbs had reportedly completed around 800 jumps and had been part of the Skydive West Plains community for nearly a decade, while Klein had approximately 900 dives.
Witnesses stated the pair appeared to have a normal free fall after exiting the aircraft. At approximately 1,000 feet, both successfully deployed their parachutes before the parachutes collided midair, reportedly without either diver being aware of the other’s position. Staff on the ground observed that Hubbs appeared incapacitated and unable to control his parachute as he descended. He drifted away from the designated landing area and was later found deceased.
Skydive West Plains released a statement expressing profound sorrow over the tragedy, describing Hubbs as a valued member of their “drop zone family.” Friends and fellow jumpers are remembering him not only for his love of skydiving but also for the friendships and connections he built over the years within the community.
Authorities confirmed that weather conditions do not appear to have contributed to the incident. The Adams County Sheriff’s Office, along with the United States Parachute Association, continues to investigate the circumstances surrounding the collision.
As loved ones grieve this devastating loss, heartfelt condolences continue pouring in for Randy Hubbs’ family, friends, and the entire skydiving community. He will be remembered for his adventurous spirit, dedication to the sport he loved, and the lasting impact he made on those around him. May he rest in peace.