Skydiver Rescued After Parachute Gets Stuck on Virginia Tech Scoreboard

The harrowing incident delayed the spring football game as emergency crews worked to safely retrieve the suspended skydiver.

Apr. 18, 2026 at 10:19pm

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An abstract, expressionist painting in vibrant neon colors depicting the chaotic moment when a skydiver's parachute becomes stuck on a scoreboard, the figure dissolving into frenzied brushstrokes.A daring skydiving stunt goes awry, leaving a participant suspended midair and disrupting the spring football game.Blacksburg Today

During Virginia Tech's spring football game, a skydiver's parachute got stuck on the scoreboard, leaving the individual suspended in midair. Emergency personnel used a crane to safely remove the skydiver, who was reported to be in stable condition after the incident.

Why it matters

Skydiving stunts are a common feature at college football games, but this incident highlights the risks involved and the need for thorough safety protocols. The delay also disrupted the spring game, which was the first under new head coach James Franklin as he looks to turn around the Hokies' recent struggles.

The details

The skydiver was attempting to land on the field during the spring game when their parachute got caught on the top of the scoreboard, leaving them suspended in midair. Emergency crews quickly responded and used a crane to safely retrieve the skydiver, who was reported to be in stable condition after the incident.

  • The incident occurred during Virginia Tech's spring football game on Saturday, April 18, 2026.

The players

James Franklin

The new head coach of the Virginia Tech football team, hired after the team fired Brent Pry following a 0-3 start to the 2025 season.

Brent Pry

The former head coach of the Virginia Tech football team, who was fired after an 0-3 start to the 2025 season.

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What they’re saying

“We are grateful to report that the skydiver was safely secured and is currently stable. Our primary focus remains on their well-being.”

— Virginia Tech

What’s next

Virginia Tech will continue to investigate the incident to ensure proper safety protocols are in place for future skydiving stunts during football games.

The takeaway

This incident serves as a reminder of the risks involved with skydiving stunts at sporting events and the importance of thorough safety planning to protect both participants and spectators.