The collision occurred at 5:37 p.m. near Ritzville in Adams County during a scheduled jump involving 11 skydivers.
Randy Hubbs, 70, of Kennewick, was identified as the deceased. The second jumper, Nicole Klein of Colville, was injured and transported to a Spokane hospital, according to the Adams County Sheriff’s Office in an updated statement Monday.
“Preliminary findings indicate an in-flight collision occurred between the two skydivers during descent. Following the collision, Randy Hubbs reportedly became incapacitated and was no longer in control of his parachute canopy,” stated the sheriff’s office.
The jump was organized by Skydive West Plains, also known as West Plains Skydiving. Staff members tracked Hubbs as he drifted north and away from the designated drop zone, according to the sheriff’s office.
“Witnesses stated Hubbs appeared unresponsive, with his head and arms down, before disappearing beyond a hill northeast,” officials said.
Emergency crews responded to the 2000 block of East Schoessler Road after Adams County dispatch received reports that two skydivers needed medical attention.
Deputies said weather conditions did not appear to contribute to the collision, and the investigation remains ongoing.
“We offer our deepest condolences to those impacted by this incident,” the sheriff’s office said.
Social media tributes from former students, colleagues, and community organizations described Hubbs as a longtime Tri-Cities music educator, mentor, and musician. His social media pages also showed years of participation in skydiving events.
After retiring from Columbia Basin College, he continued performing with the Mid-Columbia Brass Quintet and directing the Columbia Basin Jazz Orchestra.
Hubbs also worked in real estate investment and consulting alongside his wife, Jana, through their Tri-Cities business, Investment Housing Specialists. The couple also advocated for long-term housing solutions for adults with disabilities.
Ormson recalled Hubbs often encouraging others to fully enjoy life and retirement. “People always seem to screw up retirement, so you have to practice it,” Hubbs told him. “You want to travel in an RV? Do it. You want to ride your bike? Do it.”
“He lived those words,” Ormson wrote. “At 70 years old, he was still skydiving,” he said, adding, “Life is short. Do the things. Live wide open. I’m heartbroken, but every now and then I have to shake my head, sigh, and smile, because somehow a skydiving exit feels exactly like Randy. I miss you my friend.”
"He wanted the musical best from everyone and didn’t fear calling them out when needed. He inspired many people and lead many students to become outstanding music teachers. We were one in how we fought for students who had great potential but struggled to get through the academic part," he wrote.
Authorities asked anyone with information about the incident to contact the Adams County Sheriff’s Office.