An experienced base jumper has tragically died after his scheduled jump went horribly wrong in the US state of Utah.
Jonathan Bizilia, 27, from Alabama, was found dead after crashing onto rugged terrain.
A concerned friend contacted the Weber County Sheriff’s Office after Jonathan failed to send an update on his outing.
The Box Elder County Sheriff’s Office was also called in to assist with helicopters used to search for Jonathan.
The friend, who has not been named, provided authorities with potential jump locations and flight routes.
Jonathan was discovered 1.5km northwest of Willard Peak in Utah on September 27 and he was confirmed dead at the scene.
A hoist was used by a helicopter to recover the body.
His funeral will be held on October 5 at the Church of the Highlands in Alabama.
An extract from a statement by a spokesperson for Box Elder County Sheriff’s Office, stated: “We offer our deepest condolences to his [Jonathan’s] family and friends during this challenging time.”
An obituary dedicated to Jonathan stated: “He is remembered by his colleagues as a man of many distinguishing qualities — an infectious smile, a passion for the outdoors, a commitment to excellence in all he did, and a belief in the potential of his work to bless and benefit others.
“By those who knew him best and loved him most, he is remembered as a beloved son, brother, uncle, nephew, and friend.”
The incident occurred just two days after a hiker tragically to his death in Colorado.
Herbert Wise was doing a solo hike across the Rock of Ages trail on Wilson Peak.
The 53-year-old from Rochester, New York, fell 120 metres, suffering a head injury in the process.
By the time he was found by search and rescue officials he had unfortunately succumbed to his injuries, confirmed by the San Miguel County Sheriff’s Office.
