A 56-year-old tourist has collapsed and died after completing the world’s highest bungee jump.
The as-yet-unnamed Japanese tourist was taken to Conde S. Januario Hospital in Macau, China, after leaping off the Macau Tower on Sunday afternoon.
Officials said he experienced shortness of breath and ended up losing consciousness shortly after the 764ft jump at 4.30pm.
Paramedics found he was not breathing and had no heartbeat when they arrived at the scene. He was pronounced dead after being taken to hospital.
Skypark by AJ Hackett, that company that runs the bungee jump and other activities at Macau Tower, says on its website that paying customers should disclose any medical conditions they might have to its staff before taking part in any of its activities.
The as-yet-unnamed Japanese tourist was taken to Conde S. Januario Hospital in Macau, China, after leaping off the Macau Tower on Sunday afternoon
The 764ft jump costs thrillseekers more than £280
Local media reported that the tourist had no external injuries to his body.
Conditions that should be disclosed to the company, which has been running bungee jumps for more than 30 years, include heart problems, high blood pressure, diabetes and previous surgeries.
The jump sets thrillseekers back more than £280 (2888 Macanese Pataca).
The company claims to have run more than four million successful jumps across the world, and says it has a ‘perfect safety record’, adding: ‘We strive to achieve a high level of safety for our customers and crew.’
The Skypark at Macau Tower has a score of 4.5 stars on Tripadvisor, with many visitors leaving positive comments about their time there.
One person said: ‘Going through the highest official bungee jumping experience on the planet was nothing short of breathtaking, the jump was even more astonishing than how I expected.
‘What added greatly to the experience was the skypark team with their friendly and effective attitude in giving me the valuable tips and then preparing me for the jump.
‘The checking and re checking of my equipment and my safety measures made me more comfortable and left no room for worrying at all.’
Another said: ‘Looking down from 233m could really be scary, but the crews there make it fun and they were really encouraging.’
An AJ Hackett spokesperson told : ‘AJ Hackett Macau Tower Limited is saddened by the death of a tourist following a medical situation at Macau Tower yesterday that occurred after the Bungy jump was completed.
‘We extend our deepest condolences to the deceased’s family.
‘Safety is our top priority, and each and every customer is subject to stringent safety procedures. In yesterday’s incident, the tourist followed all safety requirements before taking the Bungy Jump.
‘When our staff received word that he was feeling unwell after landing, they immediately administered first aid and called the authorities for help.
‘The company is cooperating with relevant government departments.’
More to follow.