Tragedy in the Skies: Red Devils Sergeant Major Dies in Mid-Air Stunt
Unplanned Maneuver Turns Fatal:
Sergeant Dean Walton, 36, a renowned member of the British Army’s Red Devils parachute team, tragically died during a practice jump in Seville, Spain, on October 14, 2023.
An inquest revealed that Walton attempted an unplanned “canopy stack” maneuver at 3,000 feet, which unexpectedly entangled him in his own parachute and that of his partner, Nimsdai Purja.
Seconds of Hesitation, Lifetime of Loss:
Purja, a seasoned mountaineer and former Special Forces soldier, witnessed the canopy collapse and realized the imminent danger.
He waited agonizing seconds, feeling every tick of the clock as they plummeted towards the ground.
Left with no choice, he deployed his reserve chute, escaping the deadly entanglement but leaving Walton behind.
A Life Cut Short:
Walton, a married Afghanistan veteran and decorated paratrooper, succumbed to fatal injuries to his chest, spine, and head.
The inquest confirmed that his attempt to stand on Purja’s canopy led to the disastrous chain reaction.
Beyond the Tragedy:
The Red Devils, formed in 1964, are a symbol of British military prowess and perform breathtaking displays across the globe.
Walton, a beloved colleague and friend, had performed countless shows, even celebrating the England men’s football team at Euro 2020.
He and Purja were also planning a skydiving business venture at the time of the accident.
A Friend’s Tribute:
Despite the pain, Purja offered a touching tribute to his friend: “Dean was someone who lit up a room and was an outstanding colleague and husband.
He served with great pride in the Parachute Regiment.”
