Porto Sant'Elpidio, Italy – Felix Baumgartner, world-renowned Austrian skydiver and iconic figure in extreme sports, tragically died at the age of 56 on Thursday, July 17, 2025. The accident occurred in Porto Sant'Elpidio, in the Marche region of Italy.
Fatal Mid-Flight Ailment
According to local authorities and witnesses, Baumgartner suffered a seizure—possibly a cardiac arrest—while piloting a powered paraglider. The aircraft lost control and crashed into the swimming pool of the "Le Mimose del Club del Sole" holiday village. A hotel employee was injured in the crash, but her injuries are not considered serious.
Futile Rescue Attempts
Emergency medical personnel responded quickly, but despite resuscitation efforts at the scene, the athlete was pronounced dead. An autopsy was ordered to determine the exact cause of death. A few hours before the tragedy, Baumgartner had posted a message on Instagram citing unstable weather conditions, including "too much wind."
A Legend of the Air
Felix Baumgartner made his mark in 2012 during the Red Bull Stratos project, during which he became the first man to break the sound barrier in freefall, after jumping from an altitude of over 39,000 meters. This technological and human feat captivated the world, with millions of viewers watching it.
Tributes to an Extreme Sports Icon
The news of his death sparked an outpouring of emotion around the world. Sponsors, athletes, and fans expressed their grief on social media. Red Bull, Baumgartner's long-standing partner, praised "a bold, visionary, and inspiring man."
Investigation underway
Italian authorities are continuing their investigations to shed light on the exact circumstances of the accident. The injured employee remains hospitalized under observation, in stable condition.
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