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Indian-origin software engineer dies in Massachusetts skydiving accident
A fundraiser launched by his family is helping cover funeral and related expenses after the July 12 accident.
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Ankita Baidya - Wed, 15, Jul 2026
- 00:55 EDT
- 43
Mani Chandra Teja Gaddam died after a skydiving accident at Jumptown Skydiving in Orange, Massachusetts, on July 12. / GoFund Me
Mani Chandra Teja Gaddam, a 28-year-old Indian-origin software engineer living in Boston, died on July 12 following a skydiving accident at Jumptown Skydiving in Orange, Massachusetts, according to the Northwestern District Attorney's Office. A GoFundMe campaign launched by his cousin, Naga Annam, is seeking support to help the family cover funeral and related expenses.
According to the Northwestern District Attorney's Office, Gaddam was descending under parachute at approximately 4 p.m. when a sudden and unexpected gust of wind interfered with his landing. Authorities said he fell about 30 feet to the ground and was transported to Athol Hospital, where he was pronounced dead.
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Jumptown Skydiving said in a statement that "a sudden and unpredictable weather event appears to have caused the accident" and that it is cooperating with the ongoing investigation.
The incident remains under investigation by the Massachusetts State Police assigned to the Northwestern District Attorney's Office and the Orange Police Department. The Office of the Chief Medical Examiner will determine the official cause and manner of death.
According to the GoFundMe campaign, Gaddam was "an exceptionally bright, kind, and hardworking young man with a passion for learning and embracing new challenges."
The fundraiser says his family made significant sacrifices throughout his education, including relocating from Vijayawada to Hyderabad to provide him with better academic opportunities. It states that they invested much of their savings to help him pursue higher education and build a career in the United States.
Gaddam later earned a master's degree from Northeastern University in Massachusetts and had recently begun his professional career as a software engineer, according to the fundraiser.
The campaign also notes that he had recently obtained his A License in skydiving and had developed a passion for the sport.
"He was excited to continue exploring the sport he loved," the fundraiser states.
Family members said his sudden death has left them facing emotional and financial hardship. The fundraiser is seeking donations to help cover funeral costs and other related expenses, while organizers have encouraged those unable to contribute financially to share the campaign.
"Every contribution, no matter the amount, will make a meaningful difference and help support the family that gave everything to help him build a brighter future," the campaign says.
The accident occurred at Jumptown Skydiving, a long-running skydiving center in Orange, Massachusetts. The company said it is cooperating fully with investigators as authorities continue to examine the circumstances surrounding the incident. No additional details about the accident have been released.
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