A tragic BASE jumping accident in a remote Utah canyon claimed the lives of two people on June 14, 2026, including renowned extreme athlete Andrew "Sketchy Andy" Lewis. The incident occurred near Mineral Bottom in Grand County, close to Moab, when a tandem jump from a cliff resulted in a parachute malfunction.
Details of the Fatal Incident
Emergency responders were dispatched to the scene at Mineral Bottom after reports of injuries during a BASE jumping attempt. Authorities confirmed that Lewis, 39, of Moab, and Danny Joe Kregle, 68, of Arizona, both died from their injuries. The pair was participating in a tandem BASE jump from a site known locally as Mary's Gash, approximately 280 feet high. Kregle died upon impact, while Lewis survived for about three hours despite efforts by emergency medical personnel.
Grand County Sheriff Jamison Wiggins noted that the victims were connected in what appeared to be a tandem setup typical for guided experiences in the sport. The parachute failed to deploy fully, leading to the fatal outcome in the rugged desert terrain.
Who Was Andy Lewis?
Andrew "Sketchy Andy" Lewis was a pioneering figure in slacklining and BASE jumping. Known for pushing boundaries in extreme sports, Lewis gained widespread recognition for his performance during Madonna's halftime show at the 2012 Super Bowl, where he executed high-risk stunts on stage. His feats included innovative slackline walks and BASE jumps from iconic locations, earning him a dedicated following in adventure communities.
Lewis was based in Moab, Utah, where he contributed to the local extreme sports scene, including guiding clients on tandem jumps. Friends and colleagues described him as fearless, innovative, and inspirational, often sharing his passion for the outdoors through social media and personal interactions.
The Second Victim: Danny Joe Kregle
Danny Joe Kregle, a 68-year-old businessman from Arizona, was the client on the tandem jump. Family members remembered him as a loving father and grandfather with a great sense of humor who enjoyed performing magic tricks. He had reportedly sent a selfie to loved ones earlier that day before embarking on the adventure.
His participation highlights how individuals from various backgrounds seek out extreme experiences later in life, underscoring the personal risks involved in such activities.
Understanding BASE Jumping
BASE jumping involves leaping from fixed objects—such as buildings, antennas, spans (bridges), or earth (cliffs)—and deploying a parachute to descend. Unlike traditional skydiving from aircraft, BASE jumps occur at lower altitudes with less margin for error, making them significantly more hazardous. The sport requires specialized equipment, extensive training, and precise timing.
Participants often emphasize the thrill and connection to nature, but the activity carries inherent dangers, including equipment failure, miscalculations in wind or trajectory, and the remote locations that can delay rescue efforts.
Lewis's Legacy in Extreme Sports
Beyond the Super Bowl performance, Lewis was celebrated for milestones like the first backflip on a slackline and daring jumps in places such as Yosemite and Moab's desert towers. He founded or was associated with BASE Jump Moab, offering guided experiences that introduced others to the sport.
His work helped popularize slacklining and BASE jumping while advocating for safety awareness within enthusiast circles. Tributes from the community have poured in, celebrating his contributions to adventure sports and his positive influence on others.
Official Response and Investigation
The Grand County Sheriff's Office led the response, with Sheriff Wiggins providing updates to the media. The remote location near the Utah-Colorado border complicated initial efforts, but responders reached the site promptly. No criminal activity is suspected; the focus remains on understanding the equipment failure.
Investigators are examining the parachute and other gear to determine the exact cause. Such incidents often prompt reviews of safety protocols in the BASE jumping community.
Reactions from Family, Friends, and the Community
Family and friends have expressed profound grief, remembering Lewis as a motivator and trailblazer. Ex-partner Hayley Ashburn shared details confirming the tandem nature of the jump and the parachute issue. The broader extreme sports world has shared memories online, highlighting Lewis's optimism and skill.
Kregle's relatives noted his adventurous spirit and joy in family moments. The dual loss has resonated deeply in Moab and beyond, prompting discussions about risk and remembrance.
Photo by Taylor Brandon on Unsplash
Safety Considerations in Extreme Sports
BASE jumping remains one of the riskiest pursuits, with fatality rates far higher than many other activities. Experts stress rigorous training, equipment checks, and weather awareness. Organizations in the adventure community often promote best practices, though the sport operates with limited formal regulation compared to skydiving.
Incidents like this one serve as somber reminders of the fine line between exhilaration and tragedy, encouraging ongoing dialogue about participant preparedness and emergency preparedness in remote areas.
Broader Context and Future Outlook
The accident occurs amid growing interest in extreme sports, fueled by social media and adventure tourism in places like Moab. While the community mourns, many advocate for continued innovation in safety gear and education to honor those lost.
As investigations continue, the event may influence guidelines for tandem jumps and client screening. Lewis's legacy is expected to endure through the stories and inspirations he left behind.
