MURFREESBORO, Tenn. — A skydiving instructor from the Murfreesboro area was killed Saturday afternoon after a tragic midair separation from his student during a tandem jump near Nashville, according to the Metro Nashville Police Department (MNPD).
Authorities identified the victim as 35-year-old Justin Robert Fuller, known in the skydiving community as “Spidey.” Fuller was conducting a tandem jump with a 46-year-old student when the pair became separated shortly after exiting the aircraft. The student survived after an emergency parachute deployed, while Fuller fell to his death.
Investigators say the incident unfolded when Fuller and the student got stuck briefly on the side of the plane moments after jumping. For reasons still under investigation, Fuller became disconnected from the student’s harness system and fell without a functioning parachute. MNPD said the student’s reserve chute opened automatically and carried them into a wooded area, where they became entangled in a tree. Emergency crews later rescued the student, who was treated for minor injuries after being trapped for several hours.
A search helicopter from MNPD located Fuller’s body later that day in a nearby field. Officials have not yet confirmed whether Fuller was wearing a reserve parachute or whether a possible equipment malfunction contributed to the fatal fall. Witnesses said three other skydivers who exited the aircraft before Fuller’s group landed safely without issue. The plane, operated by Go Skydive Nashville, returned safely to John C. Tune Airport (JWN) following the tragedy.
In a statement, Go Skydive Nashville said it was cooperating fully with investigators and expressed condolences to everyone affected. “Go Skydive Nashville remains dedicated to maintaining the highest standards of training, safety, and professionalism. At this time, the team is focused on supporting those affected by this tragedy,” the company said.
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has taken the lead on the investigation, working alongside MNPD to determine how the separation occurred and whether mechanical or procedural failures played a role. Authorities say it remains unclear why Fuller’s parachute system did not deploy.
Fuller, a well-known instructor and avid adventurer, had been part of the regional skydiving community for years. His death has left fellow skydivers and friends in mourning. Investigators are expected to release additional findings once the FAA completes its review.