A skydiver has been killed after walking into a spinning plane propeller in a “tragic” airfield accident.
Amanda Gallagher, 37, had been taking pictures of fellow thrill-seekers on a runway in Kansas on October 26.
But after stepping backwards to line up her photos, Gallagher was hit by a spinning propeller.
The 37-year-old was hospitalised with critical injuries after the run-in at Wichita Cook Airfield – and later died.
Gallagher died ‘doing what she loved: skydiving and taking pictures’, her family said
A spokesman for the airfield refused to comment on the precise nature of the incident, but has offered condolences to the “kind, adventurous and creative” Gallagher’s loved ones.
They said: “Our hearts go out to the family and friends of the young lady who died yesterday after a tragic accident with an airplane propeller on Cook Airfield.
“I wasn’t there when it happened, so I will not speculate on what could have or should have happened differently.”
Meanwhile, the 37-year-old’s family and friends have paid tribute to their “loving daughter, sister, aunt and friend”.
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The tragic accident happened at Wichita Cook Airfield in Kansas
Writing on social media, Ashley Nicole Willard said: “She was a very close family friend – so close, I would consider her a sister.
“A ceremony should be held in her honour, or something should be always proudly displayed honoring Amanda and her love for photography and her recent passion for skydiving.”
Gallagher’s sister-in-law Abbey Charboneau has set up a crowd-funding drive to cover any potential funeral costs.
Writing on GoFundMe, Charboneau said: “Amanda Gallagher was kind, adventurous, creative and beautiful inside and out.
The 37-year-old was hailed as “adventurous, creative and beautiful inside and out”
So far, more than $15,000 (11,500) has been sourced for Gallagher’s funeral
“She was a loving daughter, sister, aunt and friend and will be greatly missed.
“On October 26, Amanda passed away in a very sad accident – doing what she loved, skydiving and taking pictures!
“As her family processes through this tragic accident, they could use your help covering the funeral expenses.
“Please consider helping them out and also keeping them all in your prayers.”
The fundraising appeal had looked to raise $12,000 (£9,200) – but has smashed its target in just days.
So far, more than $15,000 (11,500) has been sourced for Gallagher’s funeral.