In a daring and unlawful act, two seasoned skydivers parachuted from a construction crane in downtown Raleigh on Christmas Eve, leading to their arrest. Authorities charged the men with trespassing and resisting officers after they refused to comply with police orders to descend from the crane.

High-Stakes Leap Lands Skilled Divers in Legal Troubles

Incident Unfolds Under Cover of Darkness

Around 2 a.m., law enforcement responded to reports of suspicious activity at a construction site in Raleigh. Upon arrival, officers discovered Jason McClure, 51, and Jorge Chacon, 37, atop a towering crane. Despite repeated demands to come down, the pair chose an unconventional exit strategy: they leaped into the night sky, deploying parachutes as they descended onto a nearby parking deck. The dramatic scene unfolded under the watchful eyes of authorities, who were left to process the audacity of the act.The incident highlights the risks associated with unauthorized access to construction sites, especially during off-hours. Safety protocols are strictly enforced to prevent accidents, yet the men's actions put themselves and others at considerable risk. While no injuries were reported, the event has prompted a thorough review of security measures by Brasfield & Gorrie, the company managing the construction site.

Background of the Individuals Involved

Both McClure and Chacon are well-known figures in the skydiving community, boasting extensive experience and numerous jumps under their belts. Mike Hollister, owner of Skydive Raleigh and a close acquaintance of the duo, praised their skills and character. "They’re not only among the most talented skydivers I’ve encountered but also some of the finest individuals I know," Hollister remarked. Chacon, in particular, serves as an instructor at Skydive Raleigh, where he has mentored countless aspiring jumpers.However, their expertise did not shield them from legal repercussions. Following their descent, both men were taken into custody and charged with first-degree trespassing and resisting a public officer. These misdemeanors carry potential penalties, including fines up to $1,000 and up to 60 days in jail. The case underscores the importance of adhering to laws and regulations, even for those with specialized skills.

Construction Company Responds to Incident

Brasfield & Gorrie, the construction firm overseeing the site, expressed relief that the situation did not result in any injuries. In a statement, the company noted its commitment to safety and emphasized that existing protocols had promptly alerted authorities. "We’re currently reviewing our security procedures to ensure such incidents do not occur again," a spokesperson said. The company’s swift response highlights the critical role of vigilance in maintaining secure environments.The incident has sparked discussions about the balance between personal freedom and adherence to rules, particularly in high-risk settings like construction sites. While the thrill of adventure may be irresistible to some, it is essential to prioritize safety and respect for legal boundaries. As the investigation continues, the broader implications of this unusual event remain a topic of interest for both the public and industry professionals.