A BASE jump from a bridge over the Snake River ended in tragedy for a daring 73-year-old California man. The acronym BASE stands for Buildings, Antennas, Spans, Earth — and thrill seekers travel the world to leap from the (mostly) man-made structures. “Spans” usually refers to bridges, probably the most popular structures because of the clearance below (unlike buildings). The Perrine Bridge in Idado, spanning the Snake River, is a popular spot for BASE jumping.
The man, James Hickey of Claremont, California, according to the Twin Falls County Sheriff’s Office, died when his parachute opened too late. CNN reports that an estimated 500 people BASE jump from the Perrine Bridge each year.
