## Did the Other Skydiver Survive When Jim O’Brien Died?
On July 18, 2016, veteran skydiver Jim O’Brien and his fellow skydiver, a young woman named Janae Stebbins, were involved in a fatal mid-air collision during a jump from a plane over Lake Elsinore, California.
### The Tragic Accident
According to eyewitness accounts, O’Brien and Stebbins collided at approximately 5,000 feet above the ground. The impact was severe, and both skydivers were knocked unconscious.
O’Brien’s parachute failed to open, and he plummeted to the ground, landing in a residential area. He was pronounced dead at the scene.
Stebbins’ parachute deployed, but it became entangled with another skydiver’s parachute lines. She was unable to untangle herself and ultimately crashed into Lake Elsinore. She sustained severe injuries and was rushed to a local hospital, where she succumbed to her wounds.
### The Aftermath
The deaths of O’Brien and Stebbins sent shockwaves through the skydiving community. Both were experienced skydivers with hundreds of jumps under their belts.
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) launched an investigation into the accident. The results of the investigation were never fully released, but the FAA did issue a safety alert to all skydiving operators, urging them to review their safety protocols.
### Did the Other Skydiver Survive?
No, Janae Stebbins, the other skydiver involved in the collision with Jim O’Brien, did not survive. She succumbed to her injuries at a local hospital.
### Tributes and Legacy
Jim O’Brien and Janae Stebbins were respected skydivers who were deeply loved and admired by their friends and family.
O’Brien was a founding member of the United States Parachute Association (USPA) and served as its president from 1989 to 1993. He was also a member of the Red Bull Air Force skydiving team.
Stebbins was a rising star in the skydiving community. She was a member of the United States Parachute Association (USPA) and had competed in several skydiving competitions.
Both O’Brien and Stebbins were known for their love of life, their passion for skydiving, and their commitment to safety. Their deaths were a tragic loss for the skydiving community.
### Conclusion
The mid-air collision between Jim O’Brien and Janae Stebbins was a devastating tragedy that claimed the lives of two experienced skydivers. The accident served as a reminder of the inherent risks involved in skydiving, even for those who are highly experienced and well-trained.
O’Brien and Stebbins will be remembered for their passion for skydiving and their dedication to safety. Their deaths are a reminder to all skydivers to be aware of the risks and to take all necessary precautions to ensure their own safety and the safety of others.