A British tourist narrowly escaped a fatal outcome when he fell 11,000 feet during a skydiving mishap in the US. Mitchell Deakin, 24, from Lytham St Anne’s, Lancs, was enjoying his vacation when the incident occurred on September 17. Engaged in a tandem jump with an instructor, Mitchell’s parachute malfunctioned, leading to a rapid descent over the Nevada desert.
Both the main and emergency chutes failed to deploy, causing Mitchell and his instructor, Jiron Arcos Ponce, 54, to crash onto the ground at a harrowing speed of 45mph. Subsequently, they were rushed to the UMC trauma unit in Las Vegas for treatment of severe injuries. Mitchell suffered a fractured pelvis, broken ribs, a punctured lung, and kidney damage. While he has made progress and marked his 25th birthday with his mother Janine Deakin at his side, his instructor remains in critical condition. Authorities are investigating the incident.
In response, Mitchell’s partner, Isabel Clacher, initiated a crowdfunding campaign to cover the medical expenses, raising £16k to date. Isabel, a professional dancer, shared details of the accident and Mitchell’s injuries, emphasizing the need for financial support during his recovery in the US. Expressing gratitude for the outpouring of kindness, Isabel mentioned Mitchell’s intention to donate any surplus funds to charity.
An update from Janine Deakin on September 25 reported positive developments in Mitchell’s recovery, including the removal of his chest drain and progress in walking with assistance. Despite additional internal injuries, his condition is stable, and he continues to receive care from a dedicated hospital team. Grateful for the support received, Mitchell remains optimistic about his recuperation and eagerly anticipates returning home.
According to ABC 13, the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department disclosed that the incident involved a 24-year-old skydiving student and a 54-year-old instructor on September 17 at Go Jump Las Vegas. The report detailed a parachute malfunction during a skydiving session from a small plane departing from Jean Airport, Clark County, Nevada, leading to serious injuries for both individuals.
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