Video shows patriotic skydiver's Fourth of July jump go wrong after US flag snags tree

FOLSOM, CALIFORNIA: A patriotic skydiving performance at the Folsom Pro Rodeo took a frightening turn on Thursday, July 2, after a skydiver carrying a large American flag crashed while attempting to land in front of a packed crowd.

The dramatic moment, captured on video, showed the skydiver descending toward the arena before the American flag appeared to catch on a nearby tree.

The unexpected snag pulled him off course, sending him crashing into a small tent just outside the arena. Despite the hard landing, organizers later confirmed that the skydiver was safe.

American flag snags tree during skydiver landing

The video begins with the skydiver, identified by organizers as Ross, descending toward the Folsom Pro Rodeo arena while carrying a large American flag beneath him.

As he approaches the landing area, the flag appears to catch on the branches of a nearby tree.

Within seconds, the jump goes wrong as Ross loses control of his descent and is pulled sharply away from his intended landing spot. Instead of landing inside the arena, he crashes into a small tent nearby.

The incident unfolded just a short distance from spectator stands filled with people watching the patriotic opening ceremony.

The footage ends immediately after the impact, leaving viewers unsure about Ross' condition. However, organizers later reassured the public that the frightening crash did not result in serious injuries.

Folsom Pro Rodeo confirms Ross is safe

Shortly after the video spread online, the Folsom Pro Rodeo released a statement confirming that Ross had safely walked away from the crash.

The statement, shared with ABC News, said, "On behalf of the Folsom Pro Rodeo and Choose Folsom, our skydiver Ross is safe and walked into our arena, post jump to a standing ovation."

The update quickly eased concerns raised by the dramatic footage, with organizers making it clear that Ross was not seriously hurt despite the rough landing.

The statement also highlighted the crowd's reaction after the incident, saying the skydiver returned to the arena to applause from spectators who had witnessed the crash.

Skydiver Ross returns after dramatic crash

Organizers also revealed that the incident would not stop Ross from taking part in the rodeo's Fourth of July celebrations.

They added, "He will be skydiving into our arena again tonight, July 3rd."

The announcement underscored both Ross' recovery and the organizers' confidence that he was fit to return after being evaluated following the accident.

While the landing could have ended very differently, given how close the crash occurred to the spectator area, the event concluded with relief rather than tragedy.

The patriotic jump, intended to celebrate Independence Day festivities, instead became an unforgettable moment after the American flag appeared to snag on a tree moments before touchdown.