Family and friends gather after skydiver’s tragic death

The 28-year-old wife of a famous skydiver has been killed in a tragic accident, with friends and family taking to social media to remember the woman described as an “angel”.

Devrey LaRiccia, who was married to famed skydiver Freddy Chase, had been on a parachute when he ran into “unforeseen difficulties.” However, it is unclear whether the accident occurred on board the plane, or after LaRiccia – an experienced skydiver – had disembarked.

LaRiccia, like her husband, had a passion for skydiving and was an instructor from California.

Chase, a skydiver known for his daring content on social media, shared the tragic news of his wife’s death on Instagram – describing her as both his “angel” and his “partner in crime”.

“I don’t even really know how to write this … there are no words I can put down,” Chase posted on Instagram to his 418k followers.

“My soul, my love, my other half, my baby, my ride or die, my everything, my wife… [sic] perfect for this world and God just wanted to bring you home.

“You were an angel among us and once you were called to heaven, you were the most wonderful person I have ever known.

Chase, who was with LaRiccia for five years, said everyone who knew his wife knew she was “something special.”

“You loved to skydive, go on trips, spend time with friends and family no matter what,” he wrote.

“Saying goodbye right now will forever be the hardest thing I will ever do in my life. I have loved you so much baby, I don’t know how I will spend the rest of my life without hearing your hideous laugh, staring into your beautiful eyes or seeing your breathtaking smile every day .

A family member of LaRiccia has started a GoFundMe page and provided further details about the “tragic accident” that killed the 28-year-old.

“On August 2, 2024, she was involved in a tragic skydiving accident in Perris, California,” the Facebook post said.

“She was doing what she loved with all her heart. It brought people closer to heaven than they would have ever gone before and helped them face their fears.

Family members hope the funds raised will help bring LaRiccia’s body home and plan her funeral.

Chase’s heartfelt post has drawn hundreds of comments, with sports fans rallying around LaRiccia’s family.

“I am so sorry for your loss, this is absolutely heartbreaking,” wrote one.

“My thoughts and prayers go out to you and Devrey’s family. Devrey was such a character, he always had a good attitude towards everything and everyone,” added another.