A professional skydiver tragically lost his life during a dramatic cliff jump in South Africa’s Table Mountain on March 15, 2024. Brendan Weinsten, a 32-year-old American daredevil, was performing a stunt from a height of 1,000 feet when he failed to pull up in time and collided with rocks at a speed of 120 mph. The incident occurred at approximately 09:00 local time, just five feet from a family hiking along a popular trail.
Witnesses described the scene as horrifying, with over 50 hikers, including British and American tourists, hearing Weinsten scream moments before the impact. Kirsten Enderby, who was in the vicinity with her family, recounted the traumatic experience. “He came shooting down extremely close to us. I could see his face just before everything happened,” she said. “It was extremely distressing to witness, and my mother-in-law and I were screaming in complete shock.”
The risky jump was part of a planned YouTube video for Weinsten’s 44,000 followers. He is believed to have concealed his parachute and wingsuit from cable car staff, as jumping from Table Mountain is illegal. After a 15-minute walk to a known launch site, he donned his equipment and made the jump.
The impact was devastating. Weinsten struck the granite path head-first, narrowly missing the hikers. “We heard the wind he made above our heads and then the screaming,” said witness Katrien Smits. “It has been so traumatizing for my son and me. I respect everyone’s hobbies, but this should be prohibited above any hiking trail as you cannot choose to risk other people’s lives.”
The incident has raised significant concerns about the safety of extreme sports near public areas. Enderby noted the potential dangers not only for participants but also for unsuspecting onlookers. “Witnessing this highlighted how dangerous this can be,” she remarked, extending condolences to Weinsten’s family.
Weinsten, who leaves behind his Brazilian wife Kivia Martins and their baby son Eiger, was known in the extreme sports community for his daring stunts. His death has prompted discussions about regulations surrounding such activities, particularly in popular tourist destinations.
The Table Mountain area attracts numerous visitors, and the tragic event has raised awareness about the need for stricter safety measures to protect both thrill-seekers and the general public.
