One dies in Lost Prairie Boogie sky diving accident

One person is dead after two parachutists collided mid-air Monday morning during the annual Lost Prairie Boogie skydiving event near Marion. 

According to Flathead County Sheriff Brian Heino, the collision triggered one of the parachutists’ reserve parachute to deploy automatically.

Marion Fire Department personnel were already on scene covering the event when the call came in about 9:42 a.m., Aug. 4. Despite lifesaving efforts, emergency responders declared one of the parachutists dead on scene.  

The other skydiver was able to land safely without assistance, according to a social media post by the Sheriff’s Office. That parachutist was evaluated and medically cleared on site.

Meadow Peak Skydiving said in a statement the two parachutists collided during free fall in a jump that included multiple people. The parachutist who died lost consciousness during the collision. Although the reserve parachute deployed, the person sustained fatal injuries upon landing.

Heino did not release a cause of death but said the Coroner’s Office is investigating alongside the Sheriff’s Office. Authorities have not yet identified either of the skydivers.

“The Flathead County Sheriff’s Office extends its deepest condolences to the family, friends and skydiving community affected by this tragic loss,” the office said in a social media post.

Meadow Peak Skydiving said it is working with the United States Parachute Association and local authorities regarding the incident. The organization said it is committed to the highest standard of training, safety and professionalism.

"Our hearts are broken," a Meadow Peak Skydiving representative said in the news release. "This is a devastating loss, and our deepest sympathies are with the [parachutist's] family, friends and the entire sky diving community."

The Lost Prairie Boogie is in its 58th year and has been hosted by Meadow Peak Skydiving for the past 15 years. Hundreds of parachutists participate each year.  

The gathering, which enthusiasts have described in the past as akin to a family reunion, has suffered tragedies over the years. An experienced skydiver from Minnesota died following a parachute malfunction in 2019. A Washington man was killed in 2011 and a Colorado man died after his parachute became entangled in 2010. 

Five people died during the event in 2007 after their plane crashed shortly after takeoff.