Experienced US wingsuit base jumper dies during illegal Table Mountain leap
Rescue teams located the wingsuit pilot via helicopter after his morning flight ended in tragedy at the World Heritage Site.
Brendan Weinstein, an American wingsuit base jumper, has been identified as the man who died base jumping in Platteklip Gorge on Monday.
Multiple search and rescue teams were deployed to the top of Table Mountain via the Table Mountain Aerial Cableway cable car to search for the downed pilot.
Base jumper’s identity confirmed by family
In a statement, Wilderness Search and Rescue (WSAR) says a small team on board the Western Cape Government Health and Wellness EMS and Air Mercy Service rescue helicopter assisted from the air.
“The crashed pilot was located shortly before 10:00. Tragically, he was found deceased. The recovery was carried out with care and sensitivity. Our thoughts are with the family, friends and loved ones of the deceased during this profoundly difficult time,” WSAR said.
Kívia Martins confirmed in a post on Facebook that Weinstein had died.
In her post, Martins says he died around 09:00 on January 5.
“He was deeply loved, and he left a powerful mark on so many people. One day, I want our son, Eiger, to be able to know his father through the memories of those who knew him, the moments, the stories, and the impact he had on others,” says Martins.
SANParks appeal to visitors to refrain from base jumping
JP Louw, the spokesperson for the South African National Parks (SANParks), says they are saddened by the tragic loss of life, and they extend their heartfelt condolences to the family and friends of the deceased.
“SANParks reiterates that base jumping is an illegal, unregulated activity and is strictly prohibited within Table Mountain National Park. We therefore appeal to all visitors to refrain from undertaking such activities,” Louw said.
He adds that the park is a protected area in terms of the National Environmental Management: Protected Areas Act (Act 57 of 2003) and forms part of a Unesco World Heritage Site, where activities that pose risks to human life and the environment are not permitted.
Constable Ndakhe Gwala, a media liaison officer for the Western Cape police, says Cape Town Central Police have opened an inquest into the man’s death.
Wingsuit base jumping is an extreme sport in which pilots leap from fixed objects wearing wingsuits, gliding through the air at high speeds before deploying a parachute.
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