Derby, Kansas — A 37-year-old photographer, Amanda Gallagher, tragically died after backing into the spinning propeller of a Cessna 182 while taking photos at Air Capital Drop Zone on Saturday afternoon. Gallagher was aboard the plane to capture images of skydivers as they jumped. After the jumpers exited, the plane landed, and as new jumpers approached, Gallagher violated safety protocols by moving in front of the wing.
According to officials, Gallagher, who was based in Wichita, raised her camera to take photos as she stepped back, inadvertently moving into the path of the propeller. She was immediately transported to a local hospital but succumbed to her injuries shortly after arrival.
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) are currently investigating the incident to determine the exact circumstances surrounding this tragic accident.
The Air Capital Drop Zone issued a statement expressing condolences and emphasizing the importance of adhering to safety procedures when near aircraft.

