Experienced N.Y. Skydiver Dies After Parachute Fails to Open

BATAVIA, N.Y. – A skydiver has died after his parachute failed to open while he was jumping with other skydivers near the Batavia airport.

Authorities say 61-year-old Joseph Schickler, of Brighton, died Thursday while participating in an event for skydivers from all over western New York.

Genesee County sheriffs say Schickler was an experienced skydiver who had jumped 800 times before. His body was found in a wheat field north of the airport.

The Sheriff's Department and the Federal Aviation Administration are investigating the accident.