A Deadly Leap: SANParks Issues Stark Warning After BASE Jumper’s Death on Table Mountain

In the wake of a tragic accident that claimed the life of an experienced American adventurer, SANParks has issued an unequivocal warning: BASE jumping is illegal and strictly prohibited within the Table Mountain National Park. The statement follows the death of Brendan Weinstein, who plunged to his death in Platteklip Gorge on Monday.

Weinstein, a well-known figure in the US BASE jumping community, was attempting the extreme sport when the accident occurred. A substantial and sensitive search and recovery operation was launched by Wilderness Search and Rescue (WSAR), involving ground teams and aerial resources. His body was eventually flown from the mountain and handed over to the South African Police Service.

An Appeal to the Public: “Report Any Illegal Activities”

SANParks spokesperson JP Louw used the tragedy to reinforce the law. “We therefore appeal to all visitors to refrain from undertaking such activities,” he stated, reminding the public that the park is a protected area and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Under the National Environmental Management: Protected Areas Act, activities that pose significant risks to human life and the environment are forbidden.

Louw urged members of the public to report any illegal activities, highlighting the ongoing challenge of policing the vast park.

Understanding the Extreme Risk

BASE jumping involves leaping from fixed objectsBuildings, Antennas, Spans (bridges), and Earth (cliffs)with a parachute. The wingsuit variation, which Weinstein was reportedly using, adds a layer of complexity and danger. The suit allows for horizontal gliding, but also increases the margin for error and the difficulty of a safe parachute deployment.

Despite the allure for thrill-seekers, the combination of unpredictable winds, complex terrain, and the inherent risk of the sport makes Table Mountain an exceptionally dangerous and illegal venue for such attempts.

This incident serves as a sombre reminder of the park’s primary mandate: to protect both its fragile ecosystem and the lives of those who visit it. For SANParks, the message is non-negotiablethe majestic cliffs of Table Mountain are to be admired from the trails, not used as a launchpad for forbidden, life-ending flights.

{Source: Citizen}

Follow Joburg ETC on Facebook, Twitter , TikTok and Instagram

For more News in Johannesburg, visit joburgetc.com