VIDEO: Spine-chilling moment skydiving instructor fatally falls after parachute fail

A Brazilian skydiving instructor, José de Alencar Lima Junior, tragically fell to his death on November 3, 2024, during a speed flying attempt from Pedra Bonita, a popular cliff in Rio de Janeiro.

The 49-year-old former paratrooper, who had a 20-year professional career in skydiving, lost control shortly after beginning his takeoff. Witnesses stated he may have tripped on uneven ground, which disrupted his balance, just as his parachute started to open.

This misstep led to a fatal 820-foot fall. Video footage captured the moment, showing Lima’s brief attempt to steady himself before the fall.

Authorities are now investigating potential equipment failure, though initial findings indicate Lima did not use the designated launch ramp at Pedra Bonita but rather an unauthorized trail, which may have contributed to the tragic accident.

The Clube São Conrado de Voo Livre (CSCLV), which oversees such activities in the area, confirmed that Lima bypassed safety protocols by jumping from an unapproved spot .