Two Deadly Skydiving Accidents Under Investigation in Illinois

ROCHELLE, Ill. – Authorities are investigating two separate fatal skydiving accidents that occurred within days of each other in Illinois, casting a somber mood over the skydiving community.

The most recent incident took place on Wednesday evening, July 9, in Ogle County near the Chicagoland Skydiving Center in Rochelle. According to the Ogle County Sheriff’s Office, two experienced skydivers collided mid-air around 6:50 p.m., causing both of their parachutes to collapse. While reserve parachutes were deployed, one of the skydivers suffered an uncontrolled descent and was transported to Rochelle Community Hospital, where he was pronounced dead. The deceased was a 40-year-old licensed skydiver with over 2,900 jumps.

The second skydiver landed at Koritz Field Rochelle Municipal Airport and sustained only minor injuries. Authorities have not yet released the identity of the deceased, pending notification of next of kin.

In a statement, the Chicagoland Skydiving Center said the incident occurred during a routine jump involving 18 total skydivers. The conditions were favorable, with clear skies and winds between 5–8 mph. The facility is cooperating fully with the investigation and expressed deep condolences to the family and friends of the victim.

This tragedy follows another fatal accident just days earlier, on July 7, in LaSalle County, where Dr. Noel Liu, a respected East Peoria dentist and father of three, lost his life in a skydiving accident at Sky Dive Chicago in Ottawa, Illinois. The circumstances leading to that incident remain unclear and are being investigated by the LaSalle County Coroner’s Office, the Sheriff’s Office, the FAA, and the NTSB.

Dr. Liu’s wife, Dr. Nazish Jafri, paid tribute to him in a heartfelt post:

“He lived a life full of fulfillment and satisfaction, always pursuing his passions with enthusiasm and courage… He was an amazing father, husband, son, brother, and mentor to many.”

Both incidents have left the skydiving community reeling, as tributes pour in for the lives lost. Investigations into the exact causes are ongoing.