A dramatic moment unfolded at a California rodeo on July 2 when a skydiver carrying a large American flag crashed into the crowd after the flag became caught in a tree.
Videos by Wide Open Country
The incident happened during the Folsom Pro Rodeo on Thursday.
As the skydiver descended toward the arena, the flag snagged on a nearby tree, abruptly pulling him off course and sending him into a spectator area.
Skydiver Crash Sparks Concern at California Rodeo
The skydiver, later identified only as Ross, has since been confirmed safe.
Video of the incident quickly spread across social media, showing the flag becoming entangled in the tree while Ross was still high above the ground.
He was suddenly pulled downward before crashing into a tent surrounded by spectators.
According to TMZ, a spokesperson for the rodeo said the tent helped cushion Ross' fall, likely preventing more serious injuries.
As concern spread online, Folsom Pro Rodeo shared an update on social media the following day.
"On behalf of the Folsom Pro Rodeo and Choose Folsom, our skydiver Ross is safe and walked into our arena, post jump to a standing ovation. He will be skydiving into our arena again tonight, July 3rd! ????," they wrote.
The organization later revealed that Ross returned to the skies once again on July 4, successfully completing another jump.
Skydiver Returns With Perfect Landing
In a video shared after the incident, Ross was seen parachuting safely into the center of the arena as the theme from Top Gun played over the loudspeakers.
The crowd erupted into cheers as he completed what organizers described as a perfect landing.
The announcer praised Ross, calling him a "true American hero" and "one of the toughest human beings in the world".
According to the event's official website, the Folsom Pro Rodeo has been running for more than 60 years.
It "has been a beloved tradition, bringing together rodeo enthusiasts, families, and the Folsom community for unforgettable experiences."
The rodeo is sanctioned by the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association (PRCA), and organizers said the 2026 edition sold out.
Folsom is located in northeastern Sacramento County, California, and has an estimated population of around 100,000.
