Indian man dies in Massachusetts skydiving accident after falling 30 feet in ‘sudden, unexpected gust of wind’
A 28-year-old Indian man died after falling 30 feet in a skydiving accident in Massachusetts. Mani Chandra Teja Gaddam was immediately rushed to Athol Hospital from Jumptown Skydiving where he was declared brought dead. Jumptown Skydiving said it was cooperating with police investigating the accident, which it said was caused by a “sudden and unpredictable” weather event.“We are deeply saddened by the incident that occurred at our facility and extend our heartfelt condolences to the family, friends and loved ones of the skydiver involved,” the statement read.“This incident appears to have been caused by a sudden and unpredictable weather event and we are cooperating fully with the relevant authorities who will conduct a thorough review. Out of respect for the investigative process and those affected, we will have no further comment while the review is ongoing. “The safety of our customers, employees and skydivers remains our top priority.”Mani’s family said he recently received his skydiving license and was excited to continue the sport he loved.“Chandra was an extremely bright, kind and hard-working young man with a passion for learning and taking on new challenges. His family made countless sacrifices throughout his life, moving from Vijayawada to Hyderabad to support his education and investing their savings to help him realize his dreams. Through his dedication and their unwavering support, he graduated from Northeastern University in Massachusetts and recently launched his career,” the family said at the fundraiser.“In addition to his academic and professional accomplishments, Mani believed in pursuing his passions and making the most of every opportunity. He recently received his **license** to skydive and is excited to continue exploring the sport he loved and the adventures ahead,” the family said.This latest incident comes less than a year after the October 2025 death of 62-year-old Robert Szabo in Connecticut. Sabo died three days after sustaining injuries sustained in a mid-air collision with another experienced skydiver at Jumptown Skydiving.
