A base-jumping accident on Table Mountain has claimed the life of a man, with rescue teams and police now working to investigate the incident. Picture Credit: Hike Table Mountain
By Aisha Zardad
Cape Town — A base-jumping accident on Table Mountain claimed the life of a man on Monday, prompting a multi-agency rescue operation and a police investigation into the circumstances surrounding the incident.
Emergency services were alerted mid-morning after reports that a base jumper had fallen while launching from the iconic mountain, which looms over Cape Town and attracts thrill-seekers from around the world. Wilderness Search And Rescue (WSAR), together with other rescue teams, conducted an extensive search across the steep and rugged terrain.
Rescuers eventually located the individual, but he was declared deceased at the scene. The body was airlifted by helicopter before being handed over to the South African Police Service (SAPS), which will lead the ongoing investigation into the incident.
Police spokesperson Constable Ndakhe Gwala confirmed that efforts are under way to identify the man, who has not yet been named publicly. Gwala said the fatal injuries were severe and that investigators must work carefully to establish his identity and the circumstances that led to the fall.
WSAR spokesperson David Nel extended condolences to the family and friends of the deceased, describing the recovery as challenging for the teams involved. He also thanked volunteers and emergency personnel for their dedicated work under demanding conditions.
The incident has reignited concern about the risks associated with extreme sports on Table Mountain and nearby peaks, where hazardous conditions and unpredictable winds can pose serious dangers. Just weeks ago, a paraglider was rescued from Lions Head after crashing into the mountain during difficult weather, underscoring the hazards these activities present to participants and rescue crews alike.
Calls for increased safety measures and clearer regulations have grown louder on social media, with commenters noting the distressing nature of witnessing such operations, particularly during the busy holiday period when many visitors and locals flock to Cape Town’s natural landmarks.
Base jumping involves leaping from a fixed point, such as a cliff or structure, and deploying a parachute to slow the descent. While enthusiasts describe it as an exhilarating discipline, experts caution that it carries significant risks, especially when undertaken outside of controlled environments or without thorough weather and safety assessments.
At this stage, authorities have urged the public to allow the police investigation to proceed and to refrain from speculation about the cause of the crash. SAPS said that more information will be released once formal identification and next-of-kin notifications have been completed.
