Three base jumpers sparked controversy at Yosemite National Park after allegedly making an illegal leap from the famous El Capitan cliff and disappearing into the surrounding forest before rangers could catch them.
The incident happened on Juneteenth when a visitor spotted three people jumping from the summit using parachutes as the sun began to set.
A visitor recorded the dramatic moment and later shared the video on Instagram, claiming rangers chased the group but were unable to locate them after they landed.
The post described the scene as an unforgettable sight.
“We spotted a group of 3 base jumpers leap from the top of El Capitan and stick the landing right as the sun began to set.
“Such a magical sight! Park rangers pursued them on foot, and we think they were hiding out in the trees until the coast was clear!” it read.
The footage reportedly shows the three jumpers landing successfully before moving into the trees, where they allegedly waited until they believed the area was clear.
The stunt has renewed attention on the long-standing ban against BASE jumping in Yosemite.
The extreme sport involves jumping from fixed objects and deploying a parachute during the descent.
Under National Park Service rules, the activity is generally prohibited inside national parks unless participants receive special authorization.
El Capitan, one of Yosemite’s most famous landmarks, has become closely linked with the history of BASE jumping.
Despite the ban, thrill-seekers have continued attempting illegal jumps from the massive granite formation over the years.
Online reactions to the newest jump were divided. Some commenters supported the jumpers, with messages including “Glad they got away” and “Shouldn’t be illegal.”
Others criticized the attention created by the video, saying public exposure could bring more restrictions and hurt people who participate in the activity discreetly.
The latest incident is not the first time unauthorized BASE jumpers have been caught at El Capitan.
Christopher I. Durell was ordered to serve 18 months of unsupervised probation, pay $600 in fines, and complete 40 hours of community service with an organization supporting the National Park Service.
Joshua A. Iosue faced additional punishment after trying to escape on foot following the illegal jump.
He was fined $2,510, sentenced to two days in jail, and placed on 24 months of unsupervised probation.
If the three jumpers seen in the latest video are identified, they could face thousands of dollars in fines as well.
“We do not tolerate illegal activity in Yosemite National Park,” Yosemite National Park Superintendent Raymond McPadden said in a statement. Our law enforcement rangers remain efficient, effective, and vigilant 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.”
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