British dad dies in holiday skydive at Grand Canyon
NEIGHBOURS of a “loving husband and dad” have spoken of their shock at his death in a skydiving accident over America’s Grand Canyon.
Christopher Swales, 55, was found unconscious on the ground at an airport near the Arizona landmark on Sunday morning. The father-of-two died at a nearby hospital, a day before his 56th birthday.
The popular businessman was jumping in tandem with another man, who suffered a broken leg in the accident, part of a package bought through a local company Paragon Skydive.
It is understood Mr Swales was on holiday with wife Deborah, who is said to be helping authorities investigating the tragedy.
Mr Swales, who was stepfather to his wife’s eldest son, Alan, was well known in Harrogate, North Yorkshire, where he ran a successful joinery business.
He and his wife had renewed their wedding vows last October, after 30 years of marriage. Yesterday, there was no reply from the family’s detached home, but shocked neighbours paid tribute to Mr Swales.
One said: “It’s an absolute tragedy. He was always so friendly.
“I understand his wife is over there liaising with embassy officials. Our thoughts are with her and her children.”
Another neighbour said: “Chris was a lovely fellow and we couldn’t believe it when we heard it on the news. He was a loving husband and dad and we can’t imagine how his wife is feeling.”
He ran CJ Swales Joinery, specialising in kitchen planning and installation, from his home.
US authorities said the skydiving tragedy happened near Grand Canyon National Park.
Coconino County sheriff’s officers were alerted on Sunday about two men injured after skydiving in tandem. It is understood they had difficulties when approaching the landing area and were in freefall before hitting the ground.
Paragon Skydive, which is based at the airport, has not commented on the accident, but police said there were “no indications that the incident is criminal in nature”.
The Foreign Office said last night: “Our staff are supporting the family of a British man following his death in the USA. Our thoughts are with them at this difficult time.”