Extreme sports TV star Roner dies in skydiving accident

SAN FRANCISCO, Sept. 28 (UPI) -- Erik Roner, one of the stars of MTV's extreme sports program Nitro Circus died Monday when he slammed into a tree during a skydiving attempt in Northern California, law enforcement officials said.

Roner was performing the skydiving stunt as part of the opening ceremony at a celebrity golf tournament in Squaw Valley, Powder Magazine reported.

The golf course is located about five miles from Lake Tahoe's northwest shore.

Authorities said witnesses reported seeing Roner crash into a tree as he attempted his landing and died at the scene. The other skydivers participating in the stunt were not hurt.

"Erik was an amazing person who made everyone and everything around him better," freestyle motorcycle star Travis Pastrana, who also appears in Nitro Circus, said.

Roner was a professional skier and avid BASE jumper.

"We are still trying to process this tragedy," Outside Television Sr. Vice President Rob Faris said. "Our hearts go out to his family."

Outside Television posted a tribute video honoring Roner to its YouTube channel.

Officials said Roner was stuck in the tree about 30-feet off the ground for about 40 minutes before emergency crews could get him down.

Authorities were investigating the cause of the accident, and the Federal Aviation Administration has been notified.