Tipsheet

Navy SEAL Skydiver Dies After Parachute Fails During Fleet Week Exhibition

A Navy SEAL skydiver and member of the group's "Leap Frogs" team died Sunday after his parachute failed to open during an aerial exhibition that was part of Fleet Week festivities in New York City.

The group was conducting a coordinated jump into Liberty State Park shortly after noon, Rear Adm. Jack Scorby said in a press conference. When the parachute didn't open, the skydiver cut himself loose so he would land in the water. When he splashed down, he was "retrieved immediately by US Coast Guard and the Jersey City Fire Department Marine Unit" and taken to a nearby hospital. He was pronounced dead at 1:10 p.m.

"Our hearts and our prayers go out to his family, and I ask for all of your prayers for the Navy SEAL community who lost a true patriot today," Scorby said. "The cause of the mishap is under investigation and his next of kin are being notified at this time."