Skydiver Survives 13,000-Foot Fall: Hailed as 'Miracle' (VIDEO, PHOTO)
A skydiver has survived a 13,000-foot fall in what has been described by some as a "miracle."
Gerardo Flores, an experienced skydiver who had already completed 29 successful jumps, was reportedly about 30 seconds into his free-fall jump when his parachute suddenly opened unexpected, according to The Daily Mail.
Flores estimates that he was still at a height of about 13,000 foot above ground when his parachute opened unintentionally.
Get Our Latest News for FREE
He now has reported, "It just exploded … It just it yanked me to the side. Something went wrong … One hundred things go through your mind. You are never suppose to open above 6,000 feet."
According to the New York Daily News, Flores passed out as he dropped and actually fell to the ground unconscious.
After his 13,000 foot fall he slammed into the ground breaking numerous ribs. He also suffered a lacerated tongue.
He suffered head injuries and the impact knocked him cold for a two weeks period. But a fortnight later he finally recovered consciousness and is now thankful he survived the dramatic plunge.
Flores has said, "The FAA said you are the luckiest man I ever met."
Investigations into the accident have revealed that a critical piece of equipment, the velcro closure to his parachute was completely worn away. In addition, it was revealed that the skydivers rigging had knots in it, and a number of suspension lines were broken.
An inspector has reported, "These lines should have been replaced prior top allowing this parachute to be placed in service."
Those who have heard about his amazing survival story have hailed the incident as a miracle. One poster, DKYoung78, posted: "Wow! Absolutely amazing. There's no logical reason why this guy should still be alive. An absolute miracle."
Here is a video report into the amazing story:
