Fri Jul 18 02:43:32 UTC 2025: Here’s a summary and a news article based on the provided text:
**Summary:**
Extreme athlete Felix Baumgartner, famous for his record-breaking stratospheric jump in 2012, died in a paragliding accident in Italy on July 18, 2025. Baumgartner, 56, crashed into a swimming pool in Porto Sant Elpidio. His 2012 jump saw him become the first person to break the sound barrier in freefall, a feat that captivated the world.
**News Article:**
**”Fearless Felix” Baumgartner Dies in Paragliding Accident in Italy**
**Porto Sant Elpidio, Italy – July 18, 2025** – Felix Baumgartner, the Austrian daredevil renowned for his historic 2012 stratospheric jump, died in a paragliding accident in Italy on Thursday. He was 56 years old.
According to Italian firefighters, Baumgartner’s paraglider crashed into the side of a swimming pool in the coastal city of Porto Sant Elpidio. Mayor Massimiliano Ciarpella confirmed the tragic news via social media, stating that the community was “deeply affected” by the loss of “a figure of global prominence, a symbol of courage and passion for extreme flight.”
Baumgartner, nicknamed “Fearless Felix,” achieved global fame in 2012 when he became the first human to break the sound barrier in freefall. He jumped from a capsule 24 miles above Earth, reaching a speed of 843.6 mph (Mach 1.25) before deploying his parachute. The event was livestreamed on YouTube and watched by millions worldwide. He jumped from a helium balloon over New Mexico.
Beyond his record-breaking jump, Baumgartner was known for his numerous BASE jumps and aerial stunts, including crossing the English Channel with a carbon fiber wing. In recent years, he worked as a helicopter stunt pilot for The Flying Bulls.
His daring feats pushed the boundaries of human capability and inspired awe in millions around the world. His death marks the end of a life lived on the edge.
First Piper 