San Diego-Based Navy Parachutist Dies in New Jersey Aerial Demo

SAN DIEGO - A member of the the San Diego-based Leap Frogs Navy elite parachute team was killed Sunday during an aerial demonstration in New Jersey.

The Navy is withholding the man's name, pending an investigation.

According to Navy officials, at about 12:10 p.m., the Navy SEAL's parachute malfunctioned during a Fleet Week event at Liberty State Park in Jersey City, adjacent to New York City.

Navy officials said that after falling into the Hudson River, the victim immediately was retrieved by rescue crews on standby. He was taken to Jersey City Medical Center, where he died about an hour later, Navy officials said.

"Our hearts and prayers go out to his family, and I ask for all of your prayers for the Navy SEAL community who lost a true patriot today," Navy Rear Adm. Jack Scorby said.

By City News Service / Image via Leap Frogs Navy