Fatal Rope‑Jump Incident Stems from Missing Safety Rope, Three Men Arrested

Mon Jun 15 2026 13:57:42 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

A 21‑year‑old Brazilian woman died after instructors failed to secure a rope for a rope‑jumping stunt, prompting arrests and legal action against federal authorities.

In the interior of São Paulo state, a rope‑jumping stunt gone wrong claimed the life of 21‑year‑old Maria Eduarda Rodrigues de Freitas when her safety rope was never attached. Three men, who had overseen the jump, were arrested for failing to secure the cord. Police are investigating whether the incident constitutes homicide with intent. The abandoned Skeleton Bridge, the site of the jump, falls under federal jurisdiction and is under scrutiny after local governments demand better maintenance. The tragic event highlights serious safety lapses in a growing extreme‑sports market.

Fatal Rope‑Jump Incident Stems from Missing Safety Rope, Three Men Arrested

A 21‑year‑old Brazilian woman died after instructors failed to attach a safety rope during a rope‑jumping stunt on an abandoned bridge in São Paulo state. The incident, captured on video and shared across social media, shocked the public and prompted the arrest of three men involved.

The Jump That Went Wrong

Maria Eduarda Rodrigues de Freitas was carried to the edge of the “Skeleton Bridge,” an abandoned structure in Ponte do Esqueleto, where she was positioned to jump. According to footage, two instructors in white helmets held her by the arms while a third secured her feet. Instead of attaching the required climbing rope, the instructors released her, resulting in a 40‑metre (130‑foot) fall. Emergency services pronounced her dead upon arrival.

Arrests and Investigation

Three men have been arrested in connection with the accident. Police are evaluating whether the incident constitutes homicide with “eventual intent” – where the person does not intend to kill but takes a risk that could lead to death. Further details will be released as investigations proceed.

Legal and Administrative Fallout

The Skeleton Bridge falls under federal oversight. Brazil’s Secretariat of Federal Assets (SPU) stated it would assist authorities in the inquiry. The city of Limeira announced it would sue the federal government for failing to activate proper maintenance after the tragedy. Local officials have stated the instructors belonged to a private, rope‑jumping company or informal group.

Rope‑Jumping Explained

Unlike bungee jumping, rope‑jumping uses low‑stretch climbing ropes that convert the fall into a horizontal pendulum swing. Bungee employs an elastic rubber cord, producing a vertical bounce.