Rob performed a solo wingsuit exit from Busazza. The exit point had a significant positive incline requiring approximately 2m of clearance 6-8m below the exit point. Rob had a weak push out from the exit, and combined with a head high posture, did not clear the positive incline. His left foot struck the cliff causing a head low rotation followed by a second high speed and certainly fatal impact some seconds later. Second impact sheared closing loops (from examination of equipment) and canopy was seen flying from another exit point across the valley in slow left hand turn with no response or input and breaks still set. Canopy impacted cliff multiple times before becoming hung up 300m below the exit point.
Rob was a super conservative jumper and always jumped with caution. His judgement may have been somewhat impaired by a bad stomach and altitude. It was unlike him to make this kind of judgement error.
Rob was a beautiful, kind person and a best friend. He will be missed by all who had the pleasure of knowing him.
Can you help us with incident interpretation? We are interested in any details regarding personal experience, gear, weather conditions and any other circumstances related to the incident.