A tragic incident claimed the life of Pierre Wolnik, a distinguished 37-year-old wingsuit skydiver, when his parachute failed to open during a jump over Mont Blanc, Europe’s highest peak. The accident occurred on Saturday, January 20, 2024, as Wolnik leapt from a helicopter and engaged in a daring free-fall. Reports indicate that he plummeted several seconds before crashing into rocky terrain and was subsequently pronounced dead at the scene.
Emergency responders located Wolnik’s body in Les Bossons, an area near the accident site. The news has deeply affected the skydiving community, prompting an outpouring of tributes. Yves-Marie Guillaud, president of the Fédération Française de Parachutisme, expressed condolences on social media, stating, “The entire sport skydiving community mourns the loss of a talented young man with such a warm smile.” He extended sympathies to Wolnik’s family, teammates, and the broader national teams.
Wolnik was not only a celebrated athlete but also a promising videographer, capturing breathtaking aerial footage for the French national team. He won his world titles in 2022 and 2024 and was scheduled to compete in the upcoming 2026 World Air Sports Federal Championships. His final Instagram post, shared on January 20, showcased him training in a wind tunnel, where he noted, “Nothing beats winter four-way training at home.”
Known for his remarkable skills and infectious enthusiasm, Wolnik had a following of over 6,000 on Instagram, where he shared exhilarating moments from his jumps and rigorous training sessions. The Fédération Française de Parachutisme honored his legacy, stating, “Pierre leaves behind the memory of a teammate whose presence will forever be etched in the hearts of his loved ones.”
An investigation into the circumstances surrounding the tragic fall is currently underway, as authorities seek to understand the events that led to this devastating loss. The skydiving community continues to pay tribute to Wolnik, reflecting on both his exceptional talent and the impact he had on those around him.
