A California skydiving accident killed two experienced women in Lake Elsinore on November 6, 2026. Their parachutes became entangled during a landing approach about 150 feet above the ground. Both died at a hospital as authorities opened an investigation.

Two experienced women skydivers died after colliding in midair near Lake Elsinore, Southern California, on Friday, November 6, 2026. The collision occurred about 150 feet above the ground during their final descent, causing their parachutes to become entangled.

Emergency crews respond to Lake Elsinore collision

The Riverside County Sheriff's Office received reports of an air emergency around 11:47 a.m. local time near the 20000 block of Cereal Street.

Deputies found both skydivers on the ground receiving medical attention. Emergency responders transported the women to a nearby hospital in critical condition, where both were pronounced dead.

Skydive Elsinore accident occurred during landing

According to Skydive Elsinore, both victims were experienced, licensed skydivers participating in an organized event.

The group jumped from approximately 12,500 feet. Witnesses reported that the freefall proceeded normally and both parachutes opened at the expected altitude.

However, while preparing to land, the two women collided approximately 150 feet above the ground. Their parachutes became entangled, resulting in severe injuries when they struck the ground.

Skydivers were preparing for a record attempt

The women were participating in an event involving skydivers attempting a formation record.

The Los Angeles Times reported that the group was training to establish a California record for the largest women's upright skydiving formation.

Skydive Elsinore said there was no indication of equipment malfunction. Both women had traveled from outside the area to participate in the event.

Riverside County authorities investigate fatalities

Authorities withheld the victims' identities pending notification of their families.

Skydive Elsinore expressed condolences to the women's relatives and friends and said it was cooperating with local authorities.

The investigation remains ongoing. Officials have not determined what caused the two experienced skydivers to collide during their landing approach, despite their parachutes deploying normally.