Tributes have been paid to a ‘selfless’ mother of four who died in a tandem jump – as her partner demanded answers about the tragedy.
Police have launched a probe following the deaths in what was described as a ‘tragic accident’ at Dunkeswell Airfield in Devon.
Family members have been paying tribute to Belinda Taylor, who died in the incident on Friday.
And her partner also now demanded answers over what caused the tragedy.
An investigation is under way after emergency services were called to Dunkeswell Airfield near Honiton, Devon, just after 1pm on Friday.
The incident is still being probed by the British Skydiving Board of Inquiry.
Ms Taylor’s partner has written on social media: ‘I want answers. Today, they took my world away.’
He added: ‘I miss you so much, you were my best friend, thank you for everything you done for me. From making my children feel at home to putting up with my mess.
‘I’m so lost without you. There’s just so much that I don’t have the words to express it. I feel so lost i dont know where home is without you.’
Other witnesses who were at the site on Friday have described the scene.
One said: ‘My husband and I were there when this awful tragedy happened.
‘He was all harnessed up ready to do the next jump when they cancelled it and evacuated the area.
‘The emergency services arrived incredibly quickly. Such devastating news and heartfelt condolences to the families of both victims.’
Another witness added: ‘My husband and I were at the cafe waiting to be served when the cafe was told to close with no reason given.
‘We left, rather disgruntled at missing out on our coffee. Surprising how things are put in to perspective when you know the facts.
‘Our thoughts and condolences are with all those affected by this very sad tragedy.’
British Skydiving chief executive Robert Gibson earlier posted online: ‘Today, Friday 13 June 2025, British Skydiving has been notified of a tragic accident in which two jumpers lost their lives.
‘Our deepest condolences go to their families, friends and the entire skydiving community.
‘A British Skydiving Board of Inquiry will investigate the accident.
‘Once complete, a report – setting out the Board’s conclusions and any recommendations – will be submitted to the coroner, the police, the CAA, the British Skydiving Safety & Training Committee (STC) and any other relevant authorities.
‘No further details will be provided at this time. We respectfully ask for privacy for all those affected at this difficult time.’
Devon and Cornwall Police said: ‘Emergency services were called to the area of Dunkeswell Aerodrome at around 1pm on Friday 13 June following concerns for the welfare of two people.
‘It was reported that they were skydivers. They were sadly both confirmed deceased at the scene and their families have been informed.
‘Scene guards remain in place and enquiries are ongoing by the relevant agencies. If anyone has information which may assist us, please call 101 or report via our website quoting 50250150193.’
