A 21-year-old woman has died in a tragic bungee jumping accident in Brazil after reportedly jumping from a bridge without being properly attached to a safety rope.
Maria Eduarda Rodrigues de Freitas died on Saturday in Limeira, in São Paulo state, according to Brazilian media reports.
The incident took place at a bridge locally known as “Skeleton Bridge,” where she had reportedly signed up for a guided adventure package that included a bungee jump.
Videos circulating on social media appear to show staff escorting her to the edge of the bridge moments before the jump. Witnesses later realised something had gone wrong when a rope was reportedly seen still lying on the bridge rather than being secured to the participant.
Authorities say Freitas fell approximately 40 metres after allegedly jumping without being connected to the safety system.
Emergency services, including a police helicopter, were dispatched to the scene, but she was pronounced dead at the location.
According to reports, Freitas was studying physical education and sports management. Her fiancé reportedly became unwell upon arriving at the scene and was taken for medical treatment.
The fatal incident has triggered a criminal investigation. Brazilian media report that six people have been arrested in connection with the operation of the jump.
Investigators are examining whether the activity was conducted without proper authorisation and whether critical safety procedures were ignored before the jump took place.
Police officials reportedly believe the tragedy may have resulted from failures in oversight, training and safety verification processes.
