FLATHEAD COUNTY, MT – A skydiver died Monday morning following a mid-air collision during a jump at the Lost Prairie Boogie, an annual skydiving event held in northwestern Montana.

According to the Flathead County Sheriff’s Office, the incident occurred at approximately 9:42 a.m. on August 4 during a scheduled jump over the Lost Prairie area. Emergency responders from the Marion Fire Department, who were already on-site at Meadow Peak Skydiving for the event, reported that two skydivers collided in mid-air.

One skydiver was able to deploy their parachute and landed safely. The other’s reserve parachute deployed automatically through an Automatic Activation Device, but the individual sustained fatal injuries. Emergency personnel attempted lifesaving measures, but the person was pronounced dead at the scene. The second skydiver was medically evaluated and cleared.

The Flathead County Coroner’s Office and Sheriff’s Office are conducting a joint investigation. The victim’s name has not been released, pending family notification.

This year marks the 58th annual Lost Prairie Boogie and the 15th year it has been hosted by Meadow Peak Skydiving. The event draws skydivers from across the country.

Authorities extended condolences to the victim’s family, friends, and the skydiving community.