RCAF investigation rules out equipment failure, weather in search and rescue technician's death

The Royal Canadian Air Force believes a Winnipeg-based search and rescue technician's death may have been due to human factors.

In March, 31-year-old Master Cpl. Alfred Barr died during a routine training jump over Yorkton, Sask.

A preliminary report from the RCAF has shown that there was no evidence of an equipment failure and that the weather was clear over the drop zone.

• Winnipeg-based RCAF search and rescue technician died after parachute malfunction

According to the report, when Barr jumped out of the plane, his left leg moved upwards and his body rolled slightly to the right. At the same time, a static line system started to open the parachute.

As a result, the parachute didn't open normally, and he entered into a descending spiral.

While Barr tried to untwist his parachute lines and released an emergency equipment bag, he continued to spin.

The group's team leader landed as close to Barr as he could and immediately attemptedfirst aid, but Barr had died immediately on impact.

The investigation will focus on human factors, including training and emergency procedures.

Barr lived in Winnipeg along with his fiance, Steffi Hempel, who is studying to become a nurse.

He was originally from Lethbridge, Alta.