Sam Cornwell: Police name man who died in Shotton skydiving accident after his parachute 'failed to open'

Police have named a man who tragically died during a parachute jump last month. Durham Police said videogapher Sam Cornwell, 46, from Hampshire, was skydiving on Saturday, April 28 near Shotton airfield in County Durham, when his parachute failed to open.

He suffered critical injuries and was pronounced dead at the scene at South West Industrial Estate in Shotton. The force said his death was being treated as “unexpected” and inquires remain ongoing.

Sky-High Skydiving, which operates out of the airfield, previously said: “We are all deeply saddened by the loss of a close friend, colleague and talented member of our team, our skydiving family.” The firm said it was working with Durham Police and British Skydiving to investigate what happened.

The fall may have been seen by drivers using the A19 that day and police appealed for anyone using the road at around 12.20pm, or who has dashcam footage from that period, to call them on 101.

Sam’s sister also confirmed his death on social media on the day of his passing as she paid tribute to him. She wrote: “I'm sorry to leave some people guessing, I've not been able to find the words.My lovely brother Sam sadly passed away Saturday after a skydiving accident. Words can't describe how we are feeling. He ment (sic) so much to so many people. He was very loved and will be sorely missed.”