JONESBOROUGH, Tenn. (WVLT) – During a pre-game performance at David Crockett High School Friday night at around 6:30 p.m., a skydiver was injured and died, according to Washington County Schools Superintendent Jerry Boyd.
The game was set to start at 7 p.m. between David Crockett and Daniel Boone for the Musket Bowl, an annual Washington Co. rivalry game, but was delayed following the incident.
The 55-year-old man had more than 1,500 jumps to his credit, according to a spokesperson with his employer Jump TN, Angela Alley.
Alley said that witnesses did not see anything out of the ordinary with the man’s jump. He reportedly deployed the parachute without incident.
“The entire skydiving community is saddened by the sudden loss of a wonderful member of their community. Our hearts and prayers go out to the family and friends of the deceased,” Alley said.
School and district administrators made the decision to proceed with the football game, according to Boyd.
“Our deepest sympathies go out to the family of the injured skydiver that has passed away,” Boyd said. “We ask that everyone keep the family in their thoughts and prayers as they deal with the loss of a beloved husband, father, and grandfather.”
Boyd said that more mental health support professionals will be at both high schools on Monday, Oct. 24 to help both students and staff in need.
Copyright 2022 WVLT. All rights reserved.
