Andrew “Sketchy Andy” Lewis, a renowned extreme athlete celebrated for his groundbreaking achievements in slacklining and BASE jumping, tragically passed away on June 14, 2026, during a tandem BASE jump in Moab, Utah. At 39, Lewis was a pivotal figure in the extreme sports community, known for his innovative performances and fearless approach to high-risk activities.
On that fateful Sunday, Lewis and a 68-year-old man, later identified as Danny Joe Kregle, embarked on a tandem jump from a 280-foot cliff in the Mineral Bottom area. According to reports, their parachute failed to fully deploy, leading to a fatal accident. Emergency responders arrived approximately 45 minutes after the incident but were unable to revive the victims. (ksl.com)
Lewis’s legacy in extreme sports is profound. He was instrumental in popularizing slacklining and highlining, disciplines that involve balancing on a narrow webbing suspended between two points, often at significant heights. His remarkable feats included the first-ever backflip on a slackline and setting a Guinness World Record for the most “side surfs” in a single minute. In 2010, he clinched the Slackline World Cup title and gained international fame by performing during Madonna’s halftime show at the 2012 Super Bowl. (theguardian.com)
Beyond his athletic prowess, Lewis was a passionate advocate for the extreme sports community. He co-founded BASE Jump Moab, a guiding company that offered tandem BASE jumps, canyoneering, rock climbing, and other adventure activities. His commitment to pushing the boundaries of human performance inspired countless individuals to pursue their passions fearlessly. (ksl.com)
The news of Lewis’s untimely death has resonated deeply within the extreme sports community. Hayley Ashburn, his ex-fiancé and longtime partner, described him as “an inspiration to everyone in the sport,” emphasizing his role as a pioneer and creative force in slacklining. She noted that Lewis was also among the first multi-sport adventure athletes, seamlessly integrating slacklining with rock climbing, free soloing, and BASE jumping. (theguardian.com)
Ryan Jenks, founder of the gear testing website HowNOT2, shared a personal tribute, recalling how Lewis’s adventurous spirit and zest for life profoundly impacted him. Jenks highlighted Lewis’s ability to inspire confidence and encourage others to step out of their comfort zones. (theguardian.com)
In the wake of this tragedy, the extreme sports community has come together to honor Lewis’s memory and support his family. A GoFundMe campaign is being organized to establish a charity in his name, ensuring that his legacy of adventure, innovation, and inspiration continues to influence future generations.
Lewis’s passing serves as a poignant reminder of the inherent risks associated with extreme sports. While his death is a significant loss, his contributions to the world of extreme athletics and his unwavering dedication to pushing human limits will continue to inspire and challenge adventurers worldwide.
Highlights:
- Utah canyon BASE jump kills 2, including daredevil athlete who performed with Madonna, Published on Monday, June 15