Nashville, TN, October 7, 2025
News Summary
A tragic incident occurred in Nashville as Justin Robert Fuller, a 35-year-old tandem parachute instructor, died in a skydive accident. While preparing for a jump with a student, Fuller became entangled in the rig, leading to his fatal fall without a deployed parachute. The student managed to land safely but was lodged in a tree. The FAA is investigating the incident, which has left the Murfreesboro community mourning the loss of a dedicated instructor and friend.
Murfreesboro, TN – Justin Robert Fuller, a 35-year-old tandem parachute instructor, tragically died on October 4, 2025, during a skydive near Ashland City Highway in Nashville. Fuller was preparing for a tandem jump with a 46-year-old student when they became entangled in the tandem rig on the side of the aircraft. As a result, Fuller became separated from the rig and fell without a deployed parachute, while the student’s emergency parachute was successfully deployed.
The 46-year-old student, who managed to land safely, became lodged in a tree approximately 50-60 feet above the ground in a dense wooded area. Around 4 PM on Saturday, a Metro Police helicopter spotted the student’s bright orange parachute tangled in the trees. Firefighters used ladders and a pulley system to rescue the student, who, although alert and stable, was taken to a nearby hospital as a precaution.
Meanwhile, search crews continued to look for Fuller, whose body was found at 6:45 PM that evening, about a mile away from where the student had landed safely. Authorities believe Fuller fell without any parachute deployment, highlighting the seriousness of the incident. Metro Police confirmed that three other skydivers completed their jumps successfully before this tragic event unfolded, and the aircraft involved in the accident landed safely at John C. Tune Airport.
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has initiated an investigation to determine the cause of the parachute malfunction that may have contributed to Fuller’s fatal fall. This incident has shocked the Murfreesboro community, as Fuller was not just an instructor but also a beloved neighbor and friend. He had a notable history of safety in skydiving and had previously survived a separate airplane incident in June 2025, where the plane encountered an unknown issue shortly after takeoff.
At the time of the accident, Fuller had just started working with Go Skydive Nashville, after spending six seasons as an instructor at Skydive Tennessee. The tandem jump involved stringent safety protocols and regulations, ensuring that instructors are certified and that equipment undergoes regular checks. In response to the incident, Go Skydive Nashville issued a statement reaffirming their commitment to training, safety, and professionalism as the investigation continues.
Friends and family remember Fuller fondly as a passionate skydiver dedicated to safety and the joy of the sport. His unexpected loss has left a profound impact on those who knew him well.
Key Details of the Incident
- Instructor: Justin Robert Fuller
- Age: 35 years old
- Date of Incident: October 4, 2025
- Location: Near Ashland City Highway, Nashville
- Student’s Age: 46 years old
- Outcome for Student: Landed safely but became lodged in a tree
- Outcome for Instructor: Died without parachute deployment
- Agency Investigation: FAA investigating parachute malfunction
Background Information
Justin Robert Fuller had a solid reputation within the skydiving community, having spent years enhancing safety measures. His transition to Go Skydive Nashville was seen as a new chapter in his career, building on the knowledge and experience he garnered at Skydive Tennessee. Throughout his career, he advocated for adherence to safety protocols, which are obligatory in tandem jumps involving certified instructors and regularly checking equipment.
Community Response
The tragic accident involving Justin Robert Fuller has deeply affected the Murfreesboro community. As a respected figure and instructor, many are mourning his loss and remembering him for his dedication to skydiving and safety.
FAQ Section
What happened to Justin Robert Fuller?
Justin Robert Fuller, a 35-year-old tandem parachute instructor, died on October 4, 2025, during a skydive near Ashland City Highway in Nashville.
What caused the accident?
Authorities believe Fuller fell without any parachute deployment when he became entangled in the tandem rig on the side of the aircraft.
What happened to the student involved in the tandem jump?
The 46-year-old student was able to deploy an emergency parachute and landed safely but became lodged in a tree about 50-60 feet above the ground.
Is there an investigation into the accident?
Yes, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is conducting an investigation to determine the cause of the parachute malfunction.
How did the community respond to Fuller’s death?
The Murfreesboro community is mourning Fuller’s loss, remembering him as not just an instructor but also a beloved neighbor and friend.
Chart: Key Features of the Incident
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Instructor | Justin Robert Fuller |
| Age | 35 years |
| Date of Incident | October 4, 2025 |
| Location | Ashland City Highway, Nashville |
| Student Age | 46 years |
| Outcome for Student | Safely landed, but stuck in tree |
| Outcome for Instructor | Died without parachute deployment |
| Investigation Body | Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Tragic Skydiving Incident Claims Life of Nashville Instructor
Tragic Skydiving Incident in Nashville Claims Instructor’s Life
Nashville Skydiving Accident Claims Instructor’s Life
Additional Resources
- The Tennessean
- Wikipedia: Skydiving
- NBC News
- Google Search: Skydiving Accidents
- WSMV
- Google Scholar: Skydiving Safety
- NewsChannel 5
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Skydiving
- Fox 17
- Google News: Justin Fuller skydiving incident
Author: HERE Nashville
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