Questioning Others

As the case progressed, jurors would hear from other witnesses about the relationship between Emile and Victoria. One particular observer was Mark Bayada, who had worked as a chief instructor of the Army Parachute Association. He had told the jury that when they had been called to the place where Victoria’s accident had taken place to inspect the parachute, “I would describe Emile as very quiet throughout, slightly bewildered and perhaps in shock. He seemed very matter of fact with what happened and very unemotional.”

What Happened To The Parachute?

According to the witness, “It [the parachute] had come out of the container as normal but it became clear it appeared to be wrapped around itself. The lines were clear to the canopy, not around the jumper, but the main had collapsed in on itself.” It was believed that Emile had actually taken Victoria’s parachute out of her locker the night before to remove the two parts which would cause the problem before putting it back for use the next morning.