His Parachute Deployed Unusually, Apparently Causing A Broken Neck

A veteran 63-year-old skydiver was seriously injured Monday when his parachute did not properly deploy, arresting his descent too rapidly. Michael Truffer, known around the central Florida skydiving community as Mike, went from about 120 mph during freefall to an almost immediate stop when the chute deployed. His neck reportedly was broken by the rapid deceleration.

The accident happened in DeLand, FL. Truffer is a resident of the small town near Orlando. Unable to control his parachute, he hit the side of a truck as he landed, breaking his pelvis, one leg, and possibly an arm or wrist, according to a report in the Orlando Sentinel.

Truffer was the publisher of skydiving magazine until he retired in 2009. He continued to be active in the industry, selling logbooks for pilots and skydivers, as well as volunteering as a pilot for an animal rescue group. He owns two airplanes. He is the published author of "The Book of Skydiving Formations."

He is a former national director of the U.S. Parachute Association, which awarded him a gold medal for meritorious achievement in 2006.

After the accident, Truffer was unable to move his arms or legs. He is being treated at Halifax Health Medical Center in Daytona Beach, FL.

FMI: www.uspa.org